The 229 affected households will receive relocation and financial support
Tenants living in 1960s tower blocks owned by Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) have been told they need to move out over the coming months following the identification of building safety issues.
Surveys carried out by independent experts found structural and electrical issues, problems with the water pumping system, roof damage and increasing utilities costs for customers to heat and light their homes at the College Bank development, also known as the “Seven Sisters”.
Amanda Newton, chief executive of RBH, said: “This was a very difficult decision that is wholly focused on ensuring the long-term safety of the customers in College Bank. I understand how deeply unsettling this news will be for people living in College Bank, and I am also truly sorry for the uncertainty and delays over a number of years.
“We are committed to supporting our customers throughout, providing them all with the tailored and significant support they need to find a new home suitable for their individual needs.”
The 229 households living in College Bank do not have to leave immediately. RBH said customers are being individually informed of the decision and will receive financial support and assistance in finding suitable new homes over the coming months.
The future of the regeneration of College Bank will be decided by the board before the end of the year with input from the College Bank Task Force.
The options include refurbishment and full or partial demolition and replaced new homes, all of which would require tenants to depart the buildings.
In 2017 RBH revealed plans to demolish four of the seven blocks and refurbish the remaining three.
It then backtracked on its demolition stance due to community pressure and years of campaigning by the Save the Seven Sisters group and proposed a plan to refurbish all 767 homes on the site, which would have cost £107m.
At the time, RBH was in an exclusivity agreement with Legal & General Affordable Homes to explore a funding solution involving contributions from RBH, L&G and public funds.
RBH has organised drop-in sessions for residents and said it will be visiting all customers from the week commencing 27 October to discuss rehousing options.
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