T4K3.news

Salford faces criticism over housing affordability

Local leaders highlight concerns as new developments lack affordable units.

July 21, 2025 at 02:11 PM

'We're building thousands of flats that nobody can afford'

Salford faces ongoing housing challenges as high-rise developments lack affordable units.

Salford's housing crisis continues with rising unaffordability

Plans for new high-rise developments in Salford are sparking concern among residents and local leaders as many of these projects do not include affordable housing. During a council meeting, Bob Clarke, the leader of Salford Conservatives, criticized the approval of such schemes, stating that thousands of flats are being built yet remain out of reach for local buyers. Current housing policies require that new high-density developments include at least 20 percent affordable units, but there are loopholes that developers can exploit if they prove these units are not economically viable. Salford’s Mayor, Paul Dennett, emphasized that national planning laws are a significant hurdle in ensuring these developments contribute to affordable housing needs. Recent approvals of high-rise applications, including a co-living tower with 568 studio apartments, have raised alarms as they move forward without integrating any affordable homes. Local MP Rebecca Long-Bailey called for rejections of such projects, highlighting the growing frustration among community leaders.

Key Takeaways

✔️

Salford's new developments often exclude affordable housing units.

✔️

Local council leaders express discontent with recent approvals.

✔️

High-density plans must include 20 percent affordable homes by policy.

✔️

Developers can bypass affordable housing obligations if proven unfeasible.

✔️

Recent projects have raised concerns over public accessibility.

✔️

Community voices are urging local governments to enforce housing policies.

"We’re building thousands and thousands of flats and nobody can afford to buy them."

Councillor Bob Clarke highlights the unaffordability crisis in new developments.

"There are considerable public money challenges involved in these schemes."

Mayor Paul Dennett addresses the financial hurdles in building affordable housing.

"It would be a staggering dereliction of duty to approve this development without affordable homes."

MP Rebecca Long-Bailey criticizes council decisions on housing applications.

"The national planning policy framework allows developers to avoid contributing to affordable housing."

Mayor Dennett explains the loopholes in current planning laws.

Salford’s housing situation sheds light on deeper issues within urban development and planning regulations. The alarming trend of approved developments lacking affordable housing has become a focal point of criticism for council members and the public alike. While the intention to boost housing availability is commendable, the reality is that without concrete policies enforcing affordability, many communities will be further marginalized. This reflects a broader conflict between developer interests and the need for inclusive growth in urban areas. Stakeholders must address these dynamics if they are serious about combating the housing crisis without exacerbating socio-economic divides.