Small Sites. Big IMPACT

As the Government begins work on delivery for the newly announced Small Sites Aggregator initiative, we wanted to share a real-world example that shows what’s possible when small, sometimes awkward, brownfield plots are put to use creatively.

Cornerstone Place are developing a number of these sites using our ‘IMPACT First’ model for the benefit of our asset-locked clients. Our ‘IMPACT First’ model keeps the assets in the hands of the impact makers. Here’s a current example:

Identify:

In a residential area of Rochdale is a narrow strip of land fronting a residential street—easily overlooked, but full of potential. Working in partnership with Rochdale Borough Council, it was identified as a candidate for the Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP).

Model:

We undertook site surveys and pre-application advice to explore viable options. After several design iterations, we arrived at a scheme that made the best use of this constrained and challenging site - whilst addressing the need identified by the authority.

Partner:

We presented the scheme to the Council. They backed it. We formalised the proposal and with our architects developed a detailed plan. This was submitted to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (as it was then known) and received funding approval. Rochdale Borough Council funded the planning and professional fees to move the project forward.

Activate:

The project gets underway. Though the proposal initially faced objections from local residents—largely due to misunderstandings about who would be living there and the nature of the support they would receive—positive engagement followed.

Construct:

In construction now, Cornerstone Place are due to hand over keys to 12 new high-quality MMC homes in October. Each of which will be net zero, featuring solar panels and air source heat pumps. This development is a great example of what can be achieved on a small site, in a relatively short time.

Thrive:

With the right blend of local authority partnership, risk-sharing, and impact-first design, twelve more people in the community will have a place to call home. A planned visit to the construction site by local school children, arranged by our dedicated construction partner, promises to be an inspiring learning experience. It will help the next generation understand the importance of providing housing for those in need—while also getting to see the builders in action!

We’re excited to see how MHCLG’s Small Sites Aggregator evolves, and hopeful that it will help break down one more barrier in delivering the safe, supported homes our communities so urgently need.

(Site names and exact locations are withheld to safeguard the wellbeing of vulnerable residents)

10th March 2025

11th April 2025

30th May 2025

October 2025