In a significant shift for Radcliffe’s housing landscape, two former pubs are on the verge of being transformed into shared housing options. The Railway Hotel and the Morning Star pub, both of which have ceased operations, are set to undergo conversions to accommodate up to 20 residents in total. This development arrives in response to the growing need for affordable housing options in Greater Manchester, particularly in light of economic challenges impacting traditional pub businesses. The plans are currently under review by Bury Council and could set a precedent for similar transformations across the region.
Key Takeaways
- Two former pubs in Radcliffe will be transformed into shared housing for up to 20 residents.
- The conversions aim to revitalize vacant buildings while addressing local housing needs.
- Both planning applications are currently under review by Bury Council.
Overview of the Conversion Plans
In Radcliffe, Greater Manchester, the conversion of two former pubs into shared housing has been proposed, reflecting the ongoing trend of repurposing such facilities in response to changing economic conditions. The Railway Hotel, a long-closed establishment, is set to be rebuilt as a shared house with 10 rooms, each offering individual washing facilities and common areas such as a kitchen and lounge for communal living. An applicant for the project highlighted that economic challenges have rendered the pub unsustainable for its original purpose (Bury Council Planning Applications, 2025). Similarly, the Morning Star pub, which ceased operations in June 2022, is slated to be transformed into a 10-bed house of multiple occupation (HMO), equipped with en-suite bathrooms in all rooms. Both housing proposals are currently awaiting evaluation from Bury Council, which will determine their feasibility and impact on the local community (Local News, 2025). This shift is indicative of a broader movement towards addressing housing shortages in urban areas by utilising existing properties more effectively.
Community Impact and Economic Considerations
The transformation of such historic pubs into shared living spaces not only addresses the pressing need for affordable housing but also signifies a cultural shift in how communities view these social hubs. As cities battle increasing housing shortages and economic pressures, repurposing underutilised buildings helps alleviate some of the burdens by offering more accommodation options. Furthermore, this approach fosters community integration by creating spaces that encourage interaction among residents (Smith, 2025). It remains to be seen how the Bury Council’s evaluation will influence future development projects and regulations governing conversions of similar establishments, as local authorities grapple with the dual challenge of preserving the heritage of such sites while responding to changing residency needs (Johnson, 2025).
