Regeneration specialist Watson has completed a major affordable housing project in partnership with Jigsaw Homes Group, delivering 37 new energy-efficient homes on Levenshulme Road, Longsight.

Transforming a previously underutilised brownfield site into a vibrant residential neighbourhood, the scheme provides much-needed affordable homes while contributing to the long-term regeneration of the area.

Located close to Manchester city centre, the development includes a mix of six two-bedroom houses, 20 one-bed apartments and 11 two-bedroom apartments, all for social rent. The homes directly address the shortage of affordable housing in Greater Manchester, where demand continues to outstrip supply, leaving many residents struggling to find secure, high-quality places to live.

Each home has been designed with sustainability at its core, incorporating solar panels, air-source heat pumps, and EV charging points to help residents lower their energy costs and reduce carbon emissions.

Building communities and social value

The development forms part of Manchester City Council’s commitment to delivering 10,000 affordable homes by 2032, supporting inclusive growth and helping local residents access sustainable, long-term accommodation.

Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and development, said: “We have made a clear commitment to increase the number of genuinely affordable homes to meet demand in the city and support our residents into quality homes that meet their needs – and it’s great to see this scheme offering 100% social rent housing, the most affordable housing available. It’s developments like this in Longsight that are helping Manchester people move into the sustainable and affordable home they deserve.”

Partnership-led regeneration

The development was delivered in partnership with, and on behalf of, Jigsaw Homes.

Commenting on the scheme, Rob Watson, Director at Watson, said: “Levenshulme Road reflects exactly what regeneration should be about: creating sustainable, affordable homes that strengthen communities and enhance local areas for the long term.

“Collaboration has been essential to unlock this challenging site – combining our development expertise with Jigsaw’s deep community insight and the Council’s strategic vision has enabled us to deliver a scheme that truly meets local needs.

“With demand for affordable housing at record levels, we’re focused on delivering sites that provide real solutions – projects that meet local demand, attract investment and leave a lasting social and economic legacy.”

Garnet Fazackerley, Operations Director of Development at Jigsaw Homes Group, added: “We’re proud to be delivering 37 high-quality homes and apartments for social rent at Levenshulme Road, helping to meet the growing housing need in Longsight. This scheme is just one of several we are delivering in partnership with Manchester City Council including two P500 schemes.

“This development makes use of brownfield land and is designed with sustainability at its core, featuring low-carbon technologies such as PV panels, EV charging points and gas-free heating, helping to reduce energy costs for future residents.”

Sustainability at heart

In addition to the site’s built-in energy efficiency measures, it also features 29 off-road parking spaces, landscaped green areas, and a thoughtfully designed layout to promote a sense of community and ease of access, successfully addressing the wider needs of the local residents.

Levenshulme Road adds to Watson’s expanding portfolio of regeneration-led developments across the North West, alongside major schemes such as Church Wharf in Bolton and Creams Mill in Little Lever, and continues its partnership with Jigsaw Homes to address the region’s growing demand for affordable and environmentally responsible housing.