A major new housing development in Trafford is offering residents a fresh start and "real hope" for the future, as the first families move into 80 new affordable homes.
New Beginnings for Trafford Families
The £18.2 million Warwick Road South scheme in Old Trafford represents the largest ever affordable rent and shared ownership project delivered by the Southway Housing Trust. Completed ahead of schedule, the development is a lifeline for individuals and families stuck on lengthy housing waiting lists in the borough.
One resident, Chyna, described her disbelief after receiving a call from Trafford Council while living in homeless accommodation for young people. She had felt "unsettled" for almost a decade. "Sometimes I still can't believe this has finally happened for me," she said. "I have my home, I can plan for the future and look forward to it with real hope for better times ahead."
Another new resident, Elaine, who moved in with her 17-year-old son after six months in a friend's mother's house and then temporary accommodation, praised the support received. "Trafford Council and Southway Housing Trust have been great with us and it's a huge relief," she said, adding that the community feel was already developing with "really nice" neighbours.
A Collaborative and Sustainable Development
The project, which was approved by Trafford Council in June 2023, is a joint venture between Victor (Old Trafford) Ltd and Southway Housing Trust. It features a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments spread across three buildings, complete with a communal garden.
Funding was secured from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority's Brownfield Housing Fund and Homes England via the Affordable Homes Programme. McGoff Construction acted as the main contractor, utilising an offsite-fabricated, lightweight steel frame from Panacea Building Solutions to accelerate construction and reduce waste.
Mike Purcell, Development Director at Victor, highlighted the site's sustainable credentials on brownfield land next to Old Trafford Metrolink station. Chris McGoff, Director at the McGoff Group, expressed pride in delivering the "sustainable development of high-quality affordable homes ahead of schedule."
Tackling Trafford's Affordable Housing Shortage
The opening of the estate addresses a critical need in the area. Councillor George Devlin, Trafford Council's executive member for housing and advice, stated: "Trafford – like most local authorities – has a huge shortage of affordable homes so I am delighted it has opened." He confirmed the council's total commitment to providing more such schemes across the borough.
Jonathan Turner, assistant director of development at Southway Housing Trust, emphasised the location's benefits, with excellent transport links and local amenities on the doorstep. The trust is working closely with the council to help families move from unsuitable temporary housing into these new homes.
Andrew Western, MP for Stretford and Urmston, welcomed the focus on affordability, noting: "All 80 properties on this site are either available at affordable rent or for shared ownership." He acknowledged Southway's ongoing work with the council to house families in need.
