New homes, new beginnings

We are pleased to confirm the successful handover of Wiremill Court, part of the Downley Drive development, to Great Places Housing Group – creating new opportunities for affordable living in Manchester.

What was once a disused site has been completely transformed into a modern, quality development with residents already moving in and turning the spaces into their new homes.

Key highlights include:

• 52 new-build apartments in Manchester’s vibrant Ancoats district, with a desirable canal-side location
• A mix of one and two-bedroom accommodation, featuring energy-efficient, sustainable construction methods
• All the apartments are available for social rent, helping meet the growing demand for affordable homes in this popular area
• The apartments sit alongside 23 family homes, forming part of earlier phase of the development

This achievement is the result of outstanding collaboration between our teams, partners, and stakeholders.

David Chilton, Rowlinson’s Chief Executive Officer, said “The delivery of Wiremill Court is the result of effective collaboration and, as always, it’s about so much more than bricks and mortar – it’s about urban regeneration, community development and the provision of quality affordable homes. Sincere thanks to everyone who has played their part in making this vision a reality.”

The development has already been shortlisted as part of the Insider North West Residential Property Awards 2026, in the Social Housing Development of the Year category, with winners announced on Thursday 26 February 2026.

Date published: 04/12/2025