Planning granted for regeneration of College Croft

Published by Bobbie Hough for City West Housing Trust in Housing

City West is set to transform housing for the over 55s in Eccles after planning was granted for the multi-million pound regeneration of the College Croft sheltered high rise block.

Work will begin in the coming weeks on the 12 storey block on Regent Street in the centre of Eccles, which has been a feature of the Salford skyline since the 1960s.

Expected to be completed in early 2014, the improvements to College Croft will include energy efficient over-cladding, glazed enclosures to the balconies, full internal refurbishment, a new entrance and a roof terrace for residents to enjoy throughout the year.

Customers will also benefit from the installation of the innovative EcoPod heating system which will save residents up to 60% on their energy bills and cut carbon emissions by up to 40%.

The housing association recently completed the first phase of works on College Croft’s four neighbouring blocks at the £20 million Ladywell Green project where work is now underway inside the blocks to install new kitchens, bathrooms, radiators and electrical rewires in all 349 homes.

Nigel Sedman, Assistant Director of Investment and Regeneration at City West, said: “We’re looking forward to starting work on College Croft now planning has been granted. The transformation of high rise living here and at Ladywell Green is part of the wider regeneration of Eccles town centre which includes the development of our new head office, with work set to start on this next month.

“The retrofitting of College Croft is part of our wider investment in improving our sheltered accommodation acrossSalford, which includes the ongoing refurbishment of our 15 sheltered schemes and plans for an extra care facility in Little Hulton. Once completed, College Croft will offer warm, secure and independent living for over 55s with modern facilities and round the clock support.”

A new show flat has recently been opened so that residents from College Croft and Ladywell Green can see first-hand the high standard their completed apartment will be finished to. Many customers took the chance to attend a recent open day at the show flat.

Brian Quinn (pictured), 52, lives in Cremer at Ladywell Green. He said: “Every room in the show apartment looks great and I’m looking forward to having all the work done to my home.

“The work has been fantastic and it has made a difference to the area and everyone who lives here.”