Pearson Solicitors facilitates social housing development in Salford

Posted on April 7, 2025

Salford is set to benefit from a significant social housing development, thanks to a landmark deal facilitated by the commercial property solicitors at Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd. The transaction ensures that the former Adelphi Lads Club site finds a new purpose in addressing the city's growing need for affordable housing.

Commerical Property Transation

Pearson Solicitors played a pivotal role in advising Beluga Group in a joint venture with For Housing to transfer the historic Adelphi Lads Club site in Salford into the hands of those dedicated to social housing. The complexity of the deal required three days of negotiations with Salford City Council and a legally binding Section 106 Agreement to secure long-term community benefits.

This project will introduce 63 social rent apartments, meeting Salford’s urgent demand for one- and two-bedroom homes. The specifics include:

36 one-bedroom apartments
27 two-bedroom apartments
A single building ranging from three to six storeys
A communal social space with greenery and trees

Given that nearly 80% of social housing demand in Salford is for one or two-bedroom units, this development is a crucial step in alleviating the UK housing crisis.

History of the Adelphi Lads Club

Established in 1888, the Adelphi Lads Club was one of the UK’s oldest youth clubs, fostering a sense of community for over a century. Unfortunately, after a devastating fire in 2010, the site fell into disrepair, with partial demolition occurring in 2021. Now, in a remarkable turnaround, the location will serve the community once more - this time by providing essential, affordable housing for residents in Salford.

Handling the intricate legal aspects of the transaction was Gary Jones a commercial property solicitor at Pearson Solicitors, who highlighted the challenges involved:

“This was a challenging but rewarding transaction requiring extensive negotiations with Salford City Council. The deal was subject to planning conditions and a Section 106 Agreement, involving three days of intense discussions.”

Section 106 Agreement (S106)

For those unfamiliar, a Section 106 (S106) Agreement is a legal contract between developers and local planning authorities. It ensures that new developments contribute to essential infrastructure and community services, such as affordable housing, transport improvements, and public facilities. These agreements are crucial in making sure new developments positively impact local communities.

With the completion of the Adelphi Lads Club transaction, Salford takes a vital step towards solving its affordable housing crisis. By transforming a historic site into a modern housing development, this project is a testament to what strategic partnerships and expert legal guidance can achieve for the benefit of the community.

How can we help?

For business legal advice on a property sale or purchase contact our specialist commerical property solicitors on 0161 785 3500 or email enquiries@pearsonlegal.co.uk

Image: CGI image provided by JDA Architects - Manchester

Please note that the information and opinions contained in this article are not intended to be comprehensive, nor to provide legal advice. No responsibility for its accuracy or correctness is assumed by Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd or any of its members or employees. Professional legal advice should be obtained before taking, or refraining from taking, any action as a result of this article.