300 homes in Newton Heath and Blackley will receive a range of sustainability improvements to save 750 tonnes of carbon a year – while slashing running costs for residents.
The improvement works will deliver a new heat pump system, including new radiators (replacing the current gas heating system), triple-glazed windows, new floor insulation in basements, wall insultation in unheated, communal areas, and the installation of renewable, low energy lighting where needed.
The works will also repair and clean any external wall insulation and fire breaks, if necessary. All balcony floors will be resurfaced, and balustrade systems replaced, while communal areas will be re-painted.
In Higher Blackley, £2.5m will be spent to deliver low-carbon improvements in 28 properties in three maisonette blocks on Riverdale Road and Inchcape Drive to reduced carbon emissions by up to 92% – or 64 tonnes per year.
Again, a new heat pump system will be installed, along with external wall insulation, triple-glazed windows and new roofs. The feasibility of installing solar PV panels and battery storage is being explored.
Wider improvement works will also deliver improvements to communal areas, new bathrooms or kitchen where required, and rewiring.
The final designs for both projects are being planned and work is expected to start in the new year.
Since 2005, Northwards Housing have spent £80million on making Manchester Council-owned homes more energy efficient and reduced carbon emissions from them by 48%.
Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and regeneration, said: “This is timely investment in these north Manchester homes with a key focus on improving sustainability and limiting the carbon footprint of these properties. Not only will this make the homes more comfortable, but also cheaper for residents.
“We’re also taking the opportunity to undertake some general improvements, along with some further fire safety works, which I hope will be welcomed by the residents as their safety remains a priority for us.
“The pandemic has shown us the importance of a safe and secure house – and our priority as a Council is to ensure that Manchester residents have a decent place to call home, while also investing in sustainable technologies to help us meet our zero-carbon target by 2038.”
