An update on our plans for College Bank

Residents living in College Bank have today been informed that they need to move out of all seven blocks over the coming months.

This comes as independent experts have been undertaking detailed safety and structural surveys to each of the seven buildings, which will inform a decision on the future of the blocks by the end of the year.  

What the surveys have found is that there are a number of safety issues which mean that the long-term safety of the buildings in their current state cannot be confirmed.  

These issues have been considered by the Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) Board and now, having considered the reports and to ensure the long-term safety of customers, the decision has been made that all customers will need to move out.  

Amanda Newton, Chief Executive of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing, 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.”

Many safety concerns were raised in the surveys, including structural and electrical issues, problems with the water pumping system, roof damage and the ever-increasing costs for customers to heat and light their homes.

While we are managing these safety risks to keep the blocks as safe as we can right now, these issues are becoming ever more pressing as the buildings continue to age.

The 229 households living across the seven blocks do not have to move out immediately. All RBH customers are being individually informed of the decision and will be supported to move over the coming months, with financial support provided, as well as assistance in finding new and suitable places to live.

Meanwhile, the way forward on the regeneration of College Bank will be decided before the end of the year by the Board, following discussions with the College Bank Task Force.

All of the options being explored, including refurbishment, will require customers to move out of their homes while any works take place, due to ageing of the blocks.  This is true whether the blocks are refurbished, or fully or partially demolished and replaced with new homes.

Ms Newton added:

“I completely understand that this is a significant decision that will impact upon everyone living in College Bank, and also know that this will be distressing news for many people to receive.

“Our customers’ safety and wellbeing is our absolute priority. Our RBH colleagues, myself included, will be at College Bank speaking to our residents, answering their questions, and ensuring they are aware of all the help and support available to them.

“We will work with our customers to ensure that they have certainty for the future, while providing them with new safe, warm affordable homes.”