Derelict site transformed for new homes

Hill Street resident Miss Marjorie Mutemasango is presented with flowers by Guinness Northern Counties’ Director of Neighbourhood Services John Cockerham (left) and Councillor Peter Rush.

Residents of Hill Street, Heywood, have joined together to mark the completion of five new homes which have been developed on a once derelict piece of land.

The land and derelict property were redeveloped in a bid to stimulate regeneration and provide much-needed homes in the area.

John Cockerham, Director of Neighbourhood Services for Guinness Northern Counties, which purchased and developed the land, said: “This is a fantastic scheme that meets a great need in Heywood for family houses.

“It shows just what can be achieved by organisations working together and we are very grateful to Rochdale Council for their support particularly in terms of the land acquisition.”

Mr Cockerham and Councillor Peter Rush joined with the residents to mark the completion and presented flowers to resident Marjorie Mutemasango.

Funding for the development was provided by Homes and Communities Agency, Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) and Guinness Northern Counties.

The scheme is one of three regeneration projects in the borough to be given the go-ahead under the Greater Manchester Local Investment Plan.