Partners gather to mark official start on site

Rowlinson team members recently hosted a partner event on site, marking the official start of construction for the £37 million flagship majority LGBTQ+ Extra Care social rent housing scheme in Whalley Range, south Manchester.

Once completed, the new development will provide 80 one and two-bedroom apartments for older people for social rent – over the age of 55 – and 40 affordable shared ownership apartments.

Partners celebrate the official start on site of the majority LGBTQ+ housing development

Delivered in partnership with client, Great Places Housing Group, the plans for the scheme have been co-produced with the Russell Road Community Steering Group, Manchester City Council, and LGBT Foundation.

The high-quality sustainable building will offer a safe and welcome feel and inviting presence whilst designed to respect the surrounding conservation area.

Acquired from Manchester City Council and funded through Great Places, complemented by its latest Homes England Strategic Partnership, GMCA Brownfield Housing Fund and grant from Manchester City Council, the low carbon scheme will also feature shared communal facilities including lounges, treatment rooms and landscaped gardens and will deliver an overall net gain of trees on the site.

Commenting on the official start of the project, Cllr Gavin White, Executive Member for Housing and Development at Manchester City Council, said:

“This is a real milestone moment for this development. The Council has believed in the positive impact an LGBTQ+ majority housing development could have for this community for many years – and to celebrate the social rent homes officially starting on site is a great moment for the city.

“Working with the LGBT Foundation, we know that older LGBTQ+ people worry about being able to access appropriate and inclusive housing later in life. Although we hope all older person’s accommodation is welcoming to everyone, this scheme will provide safe, secure and affordable housing for LGBTQ+ people to live with dignity.

“We look forward to the completion of these homes that will complement and enhance this part of Whalley Range – and be an important part of this community.”

Paul Martin, Chief Executive at LGBT Foundation added:

“We’re delighted to be here for the official start on site of this ground-breaking project. Having been involved from the very beginning, it’s been incredible to see the vision come to life – and as time has passed, the need for this scheme has only grown more urgent.

“In 2025, with LGBTQ+ communities facing increasing pressure, safe and inclusive spaces like this are more essential than ever. Older LGBTQ+ people are disproportionately affected by isolation, discrimination, and poor health, often without traditional family support. The Russell Road scheme offers not just housing, but community, dignity, and care.

“The response has been overwhelming, and we hope this flagship scheme will inspire similar developments across the country.”

Alison Dean, Chief Executive at Great Places, said:

“We are incredibly proud to mark the official start on site for this pioneering project. This development represents a significant step forward in providing inclusive and supportive housing for Manchester’s LGBTQ+ community.

“By working closely with our partners and the local community, we are creating a space that not only meets the needs of older LGBTQ+ people but also fosters a sense of belonging and security. This project is a testament to our commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable housing that respects and enhances the local environment.”

The project is scheduled to be completed in summer 2027.

CGI of the completed scheme

Date published: 16/06/2025