The All Souls RC church was founded in the 1890s, but closed in 2010 and was demolished in 2011, with the 0.4-hectare site remaining undeveloped ever since. 

However, Salford City Council has granted planning permission for developer Investar Developments and Places for People to build 58 homes. 

The development will comprise a four-storey block of 48 one- and two-bedroom apartments, nine two-storey houses – ranging from three- to four-bedrooms – and one two-bedroom bungalow.

At first let, all 58 homes will be allocated via the council’s choice-based lettings system to residents who are in need of housing.

“This site has remained empty and unused for many years and I’m delighted to see it brought back into use to provide much-needed affordable homes in Salford,” said Paul Dennett, mayor of Salford.

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“This is a much-welcomed development within the city of Salford and complements the 460 affordable homes built in 2016/17 and estimated 329 affordable homes built in 2017/18 at a time when many residents and families are struggling to make ends meet because of stagnant wage growth and increases in the cost of living.”

All homes will be for affordable rent and will be capped at the local housing allowance starting from just under £300 a month. 

“Melody Gardens has been a collaborative effort, and we are pleased to reach this stage of planning as we move one step closer to realising our vision of more affordable homes for local people,” said Paul McEvoy, group head of affordable housing at Places for People.

“Our aim is to be on site by summer 2018.”

Michael Dong, CEO at Investar, added: “This development is a fantastic opportunity to provide more homes in Salford. 

“Working with Salford City Council and Places for People we will deliver high-quality, affordable housing which meets the needs of the community.”