Salford PFI project involves 1,600 new homes and the refurbishment of a further 1,200 homes

A riot-hit part of Salford is to be transformed under one of the largest housing regeneration schemes in the country.

Salford City Council has approved the £430m PFI project, which involves 1,600 new homes and the refurbishment of a further 1,200 homes in Pendleton.

The scheme is being delivered by consortium SP+, which is led by the Together Housing Group and includes Keepmoat and Latham Architects.

SP+ beat off a number of other consortia for the job including Inspiral Pendleton in the final round, consisting of Regenter, Great Places Housing Group and Wates Living Space.

The first phase of the project, which will begin later this year, includes around 300 new homes and the refurbishment of 1,253 properties, some of which are in the area’s nine tower-blocks.

The full project also includes changes to Clarendon Park and other green spaces, new cycle paths and walkways, a community farm, an extra care facility, new shopping promenade and new sports pitches.

The project is due to be completed in 2016.

In summer 2011, Salford Shopping City in Pendleton was the focal point for rioting and looting. It is now being refurbished and extended.