Pendleton House in Salford, vacant since 2011, is proposed to be converted into affordable apartments.
- The historic building, once serving multiple civic roles, will feature 88 apartments, if approved by council.
- Enhancements include secure parking, landscape improvements, and a modern extension, preserving its historical element.
- The conversion aims to alleviate Salford’s housing shortage, responding to growing demand for affordable housing.
- Council officers have recommended plan approval, with a decision to be made at a town hall meeting.
Pendleton House, a historic structure in Salford, has been unoccupied since 2011. Located on Broughton Road, the building, dating back to 1936, has previously served as a coroner’s court, council offices, and NHS facilities. The developer, Pendleton House Ltd, has outlined plans to transform it into 88 affordable flats, with prices below market rates, to address the significant need for housing in Salford.
If approved, the six-storey building will incorporate secure car and bicycle parking facilities, landscape improvements, and a modern extension. This extension will respect and reflect the building’s historical significance, enhancing its original architecture. The design includes communal outdoor spaces in the form of gardens to the south and east, complemented by a large entrance lobby.
The project holds strategic importance due to its proximity to key local amenities such as Salford Shopping City, local universities, and robust public transport links, making it a convenient location for potential residents. All apartments will be either one or two-bedroom units, catering to the high demand for affordable rental accommodations in the city.
The local government has been actively pursuing various housing strategies, given the city’s growing population and the escalating risk of homelessness. Council leaders have emphasised that the shortage of affordable housing exacerbates these challenges, which are shared by many regions in the country.
Architects and developers involved in the Pendleton House project hope the proposed flats will contribute significantly to fulfilling the city’s housing needs, with council officers already advocating for the approval of these plans during a meeting scheduled at the Salford Civic Centre.
The transformation of Pendleton House is a pivotal step towards addressing Salford’s pressing demand for affordable housing.