In a bid to revitalise the Radcliffe area, plans have been submitted to convert two long-vacant public houses into modern shared living spaces, catering to a total of 20 residents. The proposals for The Railway Hotel and The Morning Star have sparked interest among local stakeholders and are currently under review by Bury Council. This initiative not only aims to address the shortage of quality accommodation but also seeks to breathe new life into defunct local landmarks.
Key Takeaways
- Two vacant pubs in Radcliffe are proposed to be converted into shared living spaces for 20 residents.
- The Railway Hotel and The Morning Star will offer modern amenities, including en-suite facilities and communal areas.
- Bury Council is currently reviewing the applications for these transformations.
Overview of the Proposed Developments
In 2025, a significant redevelopment initiative has been proposed in Radcliffe, Greater Manchester, aiming to transform two long-vacant public houses into shared accommodation. The Railway Hotel and The Morning Star are set to be repurposed into Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs), facilitating a residential capacity of 20 residents in total. The Railway Hotel, which has been out of operation for several years due to market pressures and competition from local establishments, is planned to provide separate living spaces for ten individuals. Each occupant will benefit from unique washing facilities, complemented by shared bathrooms, kitchens, and communal lounge areas, promoting both privacy and community engagement. Conversely, The Morning Star is earmarked for a slightly more luxurious setup, housing another ten residents with each room designed to include en-suite facilities. The local Bury Council is currently assessing both development applications, which are part of a broader strategy to revitalise underused properties and address the growing demand for adaptable living situations in the area. This redevelopment not only aims to enhance the housing stock but also to rejuvenate the community by creating versatile living options that could appeal to a diverse range of residents.
Impact on the Radcliffe Community
The proposed conversions have sparked a mix of responses from the Radcliffe community, reflecting a broader trend in urban areas where the demand for affordable housing is increasing. Advocates argue that transforming vacant pubs into HMOs provides much-needed accommodation for young professionals and individuals seeking flexible living arrangements in an increasingly competitive real estate market (Bury Times, 2025). Local residents are hopeful that this initiative will not only improve the aesthetic appeal of the area but also stimulate economic activity by attracting new tenants and businesses (Manchester Evening News, 2025). However, some community members have voiced concerns about potential overcrowding and the impact on neighbourhood dynamics. The Bury Council has assured that community feedback will be considered in their decision-making process, aiming to strike a balance between supporting housing needs and maintaining the character of Radcliffe (Bury Council, 2025). The outcome of the applications could set a precedent for similar redevelopment projects across the Greater Manchester region, as municipalities grapple with the dual challenges of housing shortages and revitalising disused properties.
