MP visits Places for People’s new fully affordable development in Heywood

Located off the A58 on the historic site of former rope factory buildings, Ropeworks will deliver 50 homes for social rent and 22 for shared ownership, representing significant new provision at a time of high housing need both locally and across Greater Manchester. The homes also incorporate subtle design features that reference the industrial heritage of the site, including bespoke artwork and rope-inspired canopy detailing.

The first homes have now been formally handed over from the developer, Westchurch Homes, to PfP, with final completions due this month.

Supported with grant funding from Homes England and Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Ropeworks represents PfP’s first newbuild housing estate in Rochdale and signals the organisation’s long-term commitment to expanding the supply of high quality affordable homes across Greater Manchester.

Nilam Buchanan, Regional Managing Director for Central and North at Places for People said: “At a time when many Communities are facing real pressure on access to secure, affordable housing, we are proud to be delivering 72 high‑quality affordable homes in Heywood. Everyone deserves a safe and stable place to call home, and developments like this play a vital role in meeting that need.

“Ropeworks demonstrates our long‑term commitment to Greater Manchester, not only by delivering new affordable homes, but by investing in people, opportunity, and Community resilience. As one of the UK’s leading placemakers, we are determined to play our part in increasing the supply of much‑needed homes and supporting the Government’s ambition to deliver 1.5 million new homes across the country. This development is just one example of how we are working with partners to make that ambition a reality.”

As part of PfP’s commitment to embedding social value across all areas of its work, the Ropeworks development is already delivering meaningful benefits for the local community. Donations to Woodland Community Primary School to enhance its Forest School programme have been made, helping children access outdoor learning experiences. Engagement with New House Academy is also underway, exploring opportunities for volunteering days, assemblies, classroom sessions, careers events, and future work placements, creating pathways for young people to learn more about careers in housing and construction.

Oliver Chan, Partnerships Director for Westchurch Homes said “Westchurch were delighted to partner with Places for People to develop this site. Working in collaboration with Rochdale Council we have been able to regenerate the former Ropeworks into much needed affordable homes for the people of Heywood. We are really pleased with the inclusion of rope detailing to entrances, a gable mural and a historical information board which all help to ensure the site’s rich history won’t be forgotten.”

The development has also generated training and employment opportunities, with several apprentices gaining experience on site. Once the shared ownership homes are complete, donations to local charities chosen by the buyers will be made, enabling the Community to also shape the long‑term impact of the scheme.

These initiatives reflect PfP’s broader approach to social value: investing in people, supporting skills and education, and ensuring that delivering new homes also strengthens community resilience and opportunity.

Elsie Blundell MP said: "Heywood town centre is a great place to live with shops, schools, sports facilities and a theatre within easy walking distance.  It’s great to see first-hand that we can build quality, safe and affordable homes in the heart of our town.

"I also like the commitment to the future of our town by helping school children learn more about careers in construction and housing, two areas of huge potential jobs growth.”

With excellent proximity to Bury town centre, a supermarket, local schools, and strong transport connections including the M52 and M60, the development has been designed to deliver both affordability and accessibility for future Customers. Ropeworks marks an important step in Places for People’s continued investment in Greater Manchester and its pledge to support the delivery of more high quality, affordable homes where they are most needed.