Updated terraces point to renewal benefits

Planning, 27 June 2008

The terraced house is an iconic symbol of the north. But in some places the proportion is approaching 70 per cent of housing, a level no longer suitable for the needs of modern society. A recent RTPI regeneration network event hosted by English Partnerships considered some of the solutions and best practice in parts of Manchester and Salford.

Discussion centred on how the relative strengths of this type of housing could be retained and weaknesses reduced. For instance, when Urban Splash first became involved in Langworthy in Salford in the late 1990s, a third of the total properties were vacant and property prices were well below £10,000.

The solution needed to deal with the negative perceptions of the area and to provide a better choice of housing in terms of design and quality. Total demolition was discounted. Instead, the developer decided to preserve the traditional street scene and adapt the interior to meet current living needs. This resulted in light, spacious living-dining areas, gardens raised to first floor level and bedrooms and bathrooms located on the lower level.

Similar problems were present in Northmoor in south Manchester where the large number of terraced properties was proving unpopular with homebuyers. Many were bought for private rental, leading to a transient population. This brought with it a variety of socio-economic problems typical of many housing market renewal areas.

After consultation with several partners, Manchester Methodist Housing Association created a home zone, embarking on a programme of modernisation, refurbishment, new-build and public realm works designed to improve overall living conditions and create properties for rent. The second phase sought to introduce owner-occupation to the area. With English Partnerships funding, 50 properties have been bought and will create 35 homes suited to the needs of larger families from the ethnic minority community in the neighbourhood.

Network members raised issues about the economic viability of the two schemes. They also questioned how easy it would be to replicate them elsewhere and whether they will fit with the emerging Homes and Community Agency's priorities. Of equal concern was the impact on the community and the need to engage with local residents early on.

Even if there are relatively few people left in the area it is important that their needs are considered, such as ensuring that home swap arrangements are in place. The debate will be resumed at a follow-up event in the autumn on terraced housing and regeneration in conservation areas.

- Catherine Middleton is RTPI regeneration network manager. For more information about the RTPI regeneration network or to join, please email regeneration@rtpi.org.uk or visit www.rtpi.org.uk/regeneration_network.