"We've been left in limbo land": Frustration and anxiety for buyers on stalled housing site

It seemed like the perfect answer. High quality, affordable homes in an ‘ideal’ location in Stockport close to the M60 and the town’s railway station.

But 18 months down the line, the dream of home ownership has become a nightmare for those who committed to buying a home at Melford Road, in Hazel Grove - and one with no clear end. Based on vacant land next to the park and ride, the 87-home development includes a ‘large chunk’ - 90 per cent - of 'much-needed' affordable housing.

It was promoted by Viaduct Housing - a partnership between the council and Stockport Homes - as being the perfect fit ‘for professionals, families and those looking for a place to retire’. Early buyers expected to be in their new homes in February last year - and when that date slipped by a month or two, they thought little of it, as new build developments rarely run entirely to schedule.

READ MORE:People 'facing homelessness' as work on half-built housing site grinds to halt after contractor goes bust

When that date was put back again they were told it was due to difficulties caused by Brexit and the pandemic. But in February this year builders Mulberry Homes went bust - leaving the future of the site uncertain and buyers' dreams hanging in the balance.

Among them was ‘Claire’ - not her real name - who was looking to make a fresh start with her son after suffering domestic violence. She moved in with her parents in November 2020, expecting a four-month stay, but is still waiting for her new home to be ready.

“The mental health impact is I have not been able to start afresh - I’m still stuck in this situation,” she told the Local Democracy Reporting Service. “I knew in February 2021 I could put everything behind me and start everything afresh.