Awards recognition for Middleton shared ownership homes

Lovell hand over the first completed plot at Hopwood Green to RBH – photo taken pre-pandemic

Rochdale Boroughwide Housing’s new homes for shared ownership in Middleton have been recognised for their excellence with a nomination at this year’s Northern Housing Awards.

Hopwood Green in Hollin comprises 25 houses - all of which have been bought through shared ownership - and is now fully occupied with all residents moving into their homes in 2020.

The homes were built by Lovell Homes on behalf of RBH, and designed by Bowker Sadler architects.

The new homes have been shortlisted for Shared Ownership Scheme of the Year at this year’s Northern Housing Awards. The awards will take place virtually on Thursday 13 May 2021.

Clare Tostevin, RBH Director of Growth, said: “These were our first shared ownership homes as a mutual housing society and we’re excited that they have been shortlisted in the Northern Housing Awards.

“We’re proud that these new homes have helped people to access home ownership and to move into a great quality affordable home. We have had great feedback from residents on how they have appreciated these lovely homes and gardens”

Lee Sale, regional managing director at Lovell Partnerships, said: “These homes have enabled local families and first-time buyers to get onto the property ladder and have provided new affordable housing options in the Middleton area.

“As a partnership developer I’m really proud of the relationship we’ve formed with Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and the delivery of new homes in the local area to help meet the growing demand.”

Paul Jeffrey, Director at Bowker Sadler Architecture, said: “Hopwood Green presented a challenging sloping site and this was turned into an opportunity by complementing the development with green open space, improved biodiversity, and providing a new pedestrian link.

“As well as an attractive place to live, high insulation values and efficient heating systems make the homes economic to run. The scheme provides much needed intermediate affordable housing and Bowker Sadler Architecture are delighted to have been able to work on this most rewarding of projects with RBH and Lovell Partnerships.”