Construction of a highly sustainable social housing development exclusively for older people in Salford has reached its highest point, marking a major milestone for the project.
The new Passivhaus-certified ‘independent living scheme’ has now officially topped out, with roof works completed on both buildings. Once finished, it will provide 69 new homes for social rent for people aged over 55, alongside a new GP surgery for NHS Greater Manchester, which will be a valuable addition to the local community.
The need for dedicated and appropriate housing for older people is growing in the UK. Those aged 65 and over now make up one fifth of the UK’s population, expected to make up a quarter of the total population by 2050. These demographic changes have massive implications for the UK’s housing system, and there will need to be a widespread expansion of housing with the suitable facilities for an increasingly ageing population.
The project is being delivered by Salford housing association Salix Homes, alongside partner contractor Caddick Construction, and is designed to help older people live independently for longer in high-quality homes that are affordable to run, energy efficient and fit for the future. Built to Passivhaus standards – the leading low-energy design standard – the homes will offer high thermal comfort, improved air quality and lower energy bills, creating healthier living environments for residents while supporting wider sustainability ambitions.
Eric Tamanis, Executive Director of Finance and Growth at Salix Homes, said: “We’re incredibly proud to see Archer House and Bowman House reach this major construction milestone. It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication and collaboration of everyone involved in this ambitious project and brings us another step closer to providing much-needed new social housing for older people in Salford.
“This development represents the future of older people’s housing, combining high-quality design, sustainability and accessibility to create homes that enable people to live independently for longer while supporting their health, wellbeing and quality of life.”
Alongside the new homes, the site includes modern premises for Mocha Parade GP Practice, bringing healthcare services back into the heart of the community and helping to meet future demand by expanding from three to five clinical rooms. The practice has been operating from temporary accommodation on the edge of its practice boundary since its original site was demolished in 2020 as part of local redevelopment.
A spokesperson for Mocha Parade Medical Practice said: “Mocha Parade Medical Practice is delighted to be returning to the Lower Broughton area. We are committed to providing a personal, professional, and high-quality GP service, improving access for all our patients and ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve.
“The new Arrow Street practice will provide a modern, purpose-built healthcare facility designed to meet the needs of the community both now and in the future, and we are excited to continue the delivery of accessible, patient-centred care to all.”
