Nod to area’s past as new 90-home ‘brownfield’ estate launches show homes

Wednesday, 17 December 2025 16:28

By Chris Gee

A new 90-home estate on a former school site is to be named Scholar’s Park.

Representatives from Bury council joined Hive Homes at an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the launch of the show homes at the
development, on School Street in Radcliffe.

The work to transform the brownfield site, formerly home to Radcliffe Riverside School, was made possible after the council was awarded
£882,000 brownfield housing funding by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority in 2022, which meant essential remedial works could be carried
out to prepare for the housing development now on site.

The aptly named Scholar’s Park housing development is being delivered by Hive Homes. The development will provide 90 three-bed and four-bed high quality homes, with 22 affordable plots and 68 for open market sale.

Coun Clare Cummins, cabinet member for housing, said: “This development is a key part of Radcliffe’s ongoing regeneration, transforming a disused brownfield site into attractive, affordable homes for local families.

“With the new high school and Radcliffe Hub set to open in 2026, alongside a range of other improvements across the town, Radcliffe is fast becoming an even better place for families to put down roots and thrive.”

When new homes are built, developers are required to make financial contributions to local facilities, known as a Section 106 Agreement.

Alongside the new homes at Scholars Park, Hive Homes are also contributing £246,000 towards improving Abden Street play area. Cams Lane Athletics Track, Close Park football facilities, Outwood football facilities, Radcliffe Cemetery and Radcliffe Pocket Park.

Ed Milner, managing director of Hive Homes, said: “We’re proud to play a part in Radcliffe’s regeneration by delivering high-quality homes that meet the
needs of local families.

“Scholar’s Park is a great example of how collaboration between developers and local authorities can transform unused land into a vibrant community.
“We look forward to welcoming more residents to their new homes in 2026.”

Donate to Roch Valley Radio

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

More from Local News

Julie Murphy named interim chief as councillors question five-week cover-up

Julie Murphy’s appointment as interim chief executive of Rochdale Council has sparked internal questioning, with Labour councillors raising concerns over a reported five-week delay in escalating serious allegations linked to her department.
Blocks of flats to be built at former care home site

Blocks of flats to be built at former care home site
Heywood town centre scheme presented to government

A revitalised town square, civic centre and newly improved shopfronts are all in store for Heywood, once a multi-million-pound scheme gets the green light. The Rochdalian town is on its way to receiving a £20m boost, with the Pride in Place plan now submitted to the government by the Heywood Town Board.
Julie Murphy on the line up as interim chief executive at Rochdale Council

Documents seen by Roch Valley Radio confirm that Rochdale Council will be asked to approve Julie Murphy’s appointment as interim chief executive, following the suspension of James Binks.
Charity Santa’s sleigh run hit by online abuse from ‘shameful, entitled parents’

It’s a tradition bringing smiles, joy and cheer to hundreds of families in the run up to Christmas. But the volunteers behind Radcliffe Rotary Santa Sleigh run say they have been forced to endure ‘rude or inappropriate comments about their efforts’.
Flood alert issued for Rochdale and Bury as heavy rain continues across Greater Manchester

Residents warned to be prepared as river levels rise in wake of persistent rainfall.
Bury FC part company with Michael Jolley days after managerial appointment following backlash

Bury Football Club has confirmed that Michael Jolley has been relieved of his duties as first team manager by mutual consent just days after taking up the role.
A candid conversation at Roch Valley Radio with Colin Lambert on truth, trust and local media

On Saturday 6th December, I spent a couple of hours at Roch Valley Radio with Tim, Dave and Dean.
Rochdale Scouts to represent UK at World Scout Jamboree in Poland

Eleven young people from across Rochdale have been selected to represent the borough, and the UK, at the World Scout Jamboree 2027 in Gdańsk, Poland.
GMP cracks down on internal corruption in proactive investigation into officer misconduct

Eight officers and two staff under investigation over inappropriate contact with sex workers as Greater Manchester Police steps up efforts to root out those unfit to serve.
Rochdale Council launches consultation on changes to Council Tax Support Scheme

Proposed changes include lowering the maximum discount from 85% to 80% and reducing the number of income bands, as the council seeks to balance its budget amidst ongoing cuts to government funding.
Live music debuts at Theatre Royal with acclaimed Manchester act

Ramsbottom’s Theatre Royal has launched its first ever live music event, welcoming Manchester swing artist Dominic Halpin and the Honey B’s to a packed and appreciative audience.