Options for College Bank and Lower Falinge could result in 'some level of demolition', confirms RBH

College Bank

Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) has confirmed options being considered for College Bank and Lower Falinge could result in 'some level of demolition'.

Both sites are being looked at due to lower levels of satisfaction and negative media headlines.

Options being explored include:

• What continuing to manage College Bank and Lower Falinge as they are would mean for existing and future residents.
• Some level of demolition of existing homes, and what type of homes or facilities could then replace these – and what this would mean for existing and future residents.
• What options there are for extra investment to improve the existing homes – to make them better for people living in them now and people who will be living in them in future.

A RBH spokesperson said: “We're working with local residents in College Bank and Lower Falinge to discuss how we improve their neighbourhoods for the future.

“In line with our mutual values, we will work up any plans together with our members and with the local community.

“We have also said to the government that College Bank and Lower Falinge need extra investment and we would like this to be made available for these areas.

“We're looking at a number of options, some of which could result in recommendations for some level of demolition of existing homes. We have talked through our approach with local residents via two widely-publicised drop-in events and on our website. Residents know their area best and when we have more detail on any options residents will be invited to help influence any final plans.”

RBH recently held two drop-in sessions, where they consulted residents about the plans.

RBH has already carried out some demolition in recent years, including two blocks in Lower Falinge.

RBH policy states: to pay home loss of £5,300 for each RBH tenancy which is ended as a result of demolition, to pay the value of the home for each leaseholder property which is acquired as a result of demolition – based on an independent valuation, and to support RBH tenants with moving costs of £250 pounds.

• www.rbh.org.uk/collegebanklowerfalinge