The site is the first of two sites in Salford to deliver critically needed homes for people who need short-term, secure living accommodation. The Eccles New Road site also incorporates six affordable two-bedroomed houses.
The Eccles New Road site also incorporates six affordable two-bedroomed houses.
Delivered for Salford City Council and Identity Consult, Buttress worked with local charity Loaves and Fishes to understand occupiers’ needs who may have not had a secure home for a long time. Like many boroughs, Salford has seen an increase in homelessness since 2012. This includes sofa surfers, those experiencing homelessness, unstable accommodation, or people at risk of homelessness or struggling to keep a home. The homes are ‘move-on’ homes which are designed to provide a short-term solution for people to feel secure and, in addition, to have a base from which to establish a bank account through to employment.
Carefully designed to promote a sense of community the scheme incorporates all the elements of a home in a small, compact design. Drawing on familiar domestic design references, the two-storey, self-contained apartments feature pitched roofs and are clad in red brick, blending seamlessly with the local architectural context. Each unit has its own front door and open-plan living area, with ground-floor units offering level access, while upper-floor apartments connect via a shared deck and stair. Sustainability was central to the design, resulting in low-energy, low-carbon homes that help keep running costs down. Ultimately, the design prioritises dignity, security, stability and a strong sense of home for its occupants.
Councillor Tracy Kelly, Deputy City Mayor and Lead Member for Housing and Anti-Poverty at Salford City Council said: “It is fantastic news that these homes are now complete and ready for people to move into. People are desperate for affordable homes and the six affordable homes will make such a huge difference to the lives of people who move into them.
“The extra element with this scheme is that homes on the same site for people moving on from insecure housing arrangements. The homes will provide a secure base and help to support people in short-term temporary accommodation to build up their independent living skills. The care and wellbeing of our residents is an absolute priority.”
Alex Atkinson, senior director at Identity Consult, has said: “This scheme is part of an ongoing partnership and it has been fantastic to work with a team committed to delivering affordable and much-needed ‘move on accommodation’ designed and built to such high-quality; and soon to be offering a safe and secure home for local people.”
Commenting on the project, Ben Tabiner, architect at Buttress, said: "This scheme has been designed to provide more than just a roof over people’s heads. It’s about creating a place where residents feel supported and connected, while also ensuring the homes are affordable and sustainable for the long term."
The homes are now being prepared to welcome their new occupants in the coming days, marking a significant milestone in addressing the urgent need for supportive housing across Salford.
Ben Tabiner
Ben is an associate director at Buttress who is experienced in the design and delivery of projects across a range of sectors, including residential, commercial and education.
Paul Wright
Paul is a skilled architect whose experience includes a broad range of residential, commercial and masterplanning projects.