New homes, new opportunities

We recently joined together with scheme partners to celebrate the completion of Birch Lea Park in Hattersley, Tameside – a significant housing with care development, forming part of Hattersley’s long‑term regeneration programme.

Delivered by Onward Homes, with Rowlinson as a key construction partner, Birch Lea Park supports the ambition to increase the supply and choice of affordable housing that also enable older residents to live independently for longer.

The scheme officially opened in spring 2025, with many residents already settling into their new homes now.

Key highlights include:

• 91 modern apartments for people aged 55 and over, designed to support independent living
• Purpose‑built accommodation blending self‑contained homes with access to tailored support when needed
• Shared facilities including an on‑site café and hair and beauty salon, helping create a strong sense of community
• A development that supports wider regeneration by freeing up family housing across the area

The event brought together partners to mark the delivery of the scheme and to hear directly from residents about the difference Birch Lea Park is already making to their lives. Guests included Jonathan Reynolds MP, Member of Parliament for Stalybridge and Hyde, and Councillor Eleanor Wills, Leader of Tameside Council, alongside representatives from organisations involved in the delivery of the scheme.

Resident David, who lives at Birch Lea Park, shared his experience of moving into the scheme: “Before moving to Birch Lea Park I didn’t like to ask for help. As a veteran living with Parkinson’s and PTSD, I didn’t know what support was out there. But since settling in here, I’ve found not just care, but community. The team has been incredible. I feel safe, supported, and part of something again. It’s given me a new lease of life and I’m glad I reached out.”

David Chilton, Chief Executive Officer at Rowlinson, said: “Birch Lea Park demonstrates what strong partnership working can achieve. We’re proud to have played a key role in delivering these high‑quality later‑living homes that support independence, wellbeing and community, and it’s rewarding to see residents, like David, already benefiting so much from the development.”

Jonathan Reynolds MP commented: “The opening of Birch Lea Park is a key milestone in Hattersley’s 20‑year regeneration journey, helping older residents stay in their homes longer while freeing up family homes across the borough. I have nothing but thanks for everyone involved for their vision and commitment to inclusive, high‑quality housing.”

Bronwen Rapley, Chief Executive of Onward Homes, concluded: “Birch Lea Park offers more than just high‑quality homes; it is a vibrant community that has been thoughtfully designed to enable residents to thrive. The celebration event was a fantastic opportunity to bring together those local partners who have been instrumental in making Birch Lea Park a reality, demonstrating how by working collaboratively we can make a real difference in our communities. I am incredibly proud of what has been achieved and look forward to seeing the scheme continue to thrive in the years ahead.”

Birch Lea Park forms part of a 20‑year regeneration programme in Hattersley, delivering long‑term benefits for residents of all ages and contributing to the creation of a sustainable, inclusive community. Triangle Architects designed Birch Lea Park together with the other new affordable housing that makes up the Hattersley Central development.

Date published: 19/09/2025