Developer buys old tower block

A notorious tower block in Telford - which has stood empty for more than six years - has been bought by a developer.

Russell Harrison Plc wants to "radically transform" the Manor Heights site in Hadley, with a range of "high quality" apartments.

The company has bought the block from Wrekin Housing Trust and hopes to create studio apartments with two-bedroom penthouses.

There would also be communal facilities such as a media room and gymnasium.

George Rushgrove, director of business development at Wrekin Housing Trust, said: "We have long believed that Manor Heights has the potential once again to be a real asset to the Hadley community.

"Russell Harrison Plc has the experience, expertise and enthusiasm to turn this important building around - the vision they have for its future design and use is really exciting."

Russell Harrison, managing director, said once they had secured planning permission, building work could start in October and would take about 12 months to complete.

He said: "It's an exciting project. If we are able to secure permission, then our development will ensure that Manor Heights becomes a jewel in the crown for Hadley, and somewhere to attract more young professionals to the area, which is great news for local businesses."

Residents in Hadley had originally believed the flats, which they described as an eyesore, were going to be converted into an asylum centre.

They had previously called for the block to be demolished.

The Haybridge Road flats, which closed down in the wake of a huge police raid in 2001 and 30 arrests, were plagued by social problems and it was alleged they were a centre for crime and drugs.

The properties will be owned and managed by Anacut Developments Ltd, group company of Russell Harrison Plc, and will be available on an assured short-hold tenancy.

Russell Harrison Plc are property development experts with an extensive commercial, leisure and residential property portfolio across Oxfordshire and the south west.

The company is currently expanding across central England and has built and renovated houses, shops, flats, office parks and leisure sites.