Oldham office block ‘likely to attract vandalism and anti-social behaviour’ could be demolished to make way for 140 homes
Oldham Council has re-approved plans to demolish the vacant Southlink office block, which is at risk of vandalism and anti-social behaviour, to make way for 140 affordable homes. The development, led by Vistry Partnership, will include low-carbon homes with energy-saving features like heat pumps and insulation.
A vacant office block near Oldham Mumps that council leaders warn has become a magnet for vandalism and anti-social behaviour will be demolished to make way for 140 new homes, after town hall bosses revived plans to bulldoze the Southlink building.
The Vistry Partnership, which purchased the land from Oldham Council and Transport for Greater Manchester last October, will construct 146 affordable homes on the site - 32 for social rent and 77 at 80 per cent of market value. The development stalled after a previous deal to sell the land to Tilia Homes collapsed, though demolition had already received approval.
Elaine Taylor, Oldham’s cabinet member for decent homes, told colleagues the vacant building poses ongoing problems: “The demolition will enable the site to be readied for construction and remove a vacant building which is likely to attract vandalism and anti-social behaviour, especially at night and weekends which will inevitably cost the council additional money to keep the building safe and secure.”
The new properties will feature heat pumps and advanced insulation as part of the council’s requirement for 100 per cent low-carbon homes, helping residents reduce energy bills. Council leader Arooj Shah hailed the scheme as a “huge” victory amid the borough’s housing crisis, with more than 7,000 households on the waiting list for social housing. A formal planning application is expected this spring, when residents can submit their views on the proposals.
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