Work has begun on 48 new homes for social rent on the former site of the Salford City Roosters rugby clubhouse in Eccles. This comes just as local landlord ForHousing marks 10 years of developing homes in Salford.

Comprising 30 apartments and 18 two and three-bedroom homes for social rent, including four bungalows that are accessible for wheelchair users, the 48 new homes being built on Hallsworth Road, Eccles, are set to be both affordable and eco-responsible.

The Salford City Roosters rugby team will retain a smaller site and will benefit from enhanced facilities at their new clubhouse which is closer to the rugby pitches.

Homes England has granted £3.6 million of funding to the £9 million development being delivered by ForHousing.

Designed by JDA Architects, the scheme is earmarked for completion in early 2024. Every home will be EPC Band A and zero-carbon, have electric car chargers and have electric heating rather than gas.

ForHousing CEO Mike Parkin recently visited the new site alongside Councillor Tracy Kelly, Councillor Mike McCusker, representatives from Salford City Council and the Salford City Roosters.

Mike Parkin, ForHousing CEO, said: “We’re really proud to be underway with work here at Hallsworth Road.

“This development will provide greatly needed social rent homes that are fit for the future. Starting on-site here is a fitting way to celebrate a decade of providing safe, well-maintained, sustainable and affordable homes in Salford.

“As we now look ahead to the next ten years, we’re renewing our commitment to building social rent homes in Salford and across the North West, to help meet soaring demand for truly affordable homes.

Mike added: “We know we can achieve more by working in partnership with others. We have worked closely with Salford City Council, Salford City Roosters Rugby League Club, and the local community to make sure this development will provide eco-friendly, high-quality homes that will positively impact the lives of social housing tenants and be enjoyed by generations to come.”

Councillor Tracy Kelly, Statutory Deputy City Mayor and lead member for housing, property and regeneration at Salford City Council, said: “These 28 houses, including bungalows and 20 apartments will all be available to rent as social housing and will make such a difference to the lives of people who move into them.

“I’d like to thank all partners involved in bringing this development to life as affordable housing is desperately needed in Salford for local people.”

Before work began on the Hallsworth Road site, the University of Salford undertook an archaeological dig which confirmed the site is not of archaeological significance.