Middle Bury to Get New Apartment Complex
Locales: Greater Manchester, UNITED KINGDOM

Middle Bury, Bury - February 1st, 2026 - A significant change is coming to Middle Bury's bustling bar district as plans move forward to demolish a former office building on Pennine Street, paving the way for a new 18-unit apartment complex. The decision, approved by Bury Council last week, has sparked a mix of anticipation and concern amongst local residents.
The building, situated conveniently next to the popular Pig & Whistle pub, has stood vacant for some time and was acquired by development company Salboy in 2021. Salboy's vision is to replace the outdated office space with a modern, four-storey block of apartments, aiming to address the increasing demand for residential housing in the vibrant heart of Middle Bury.
"This development represents a positive step towards revitalizing this part of Middle Bury," stated a Salboy spokesperson. "We believe the new apartments will seamlessly complement the existing character of the area, offering much-needed, modern residential units in a highly accessible location. We've been carefully considering the needs of the community and are confident this project will enhance the neighbourhood."
While the council approved the application, the decision wasn't without its detractors. Residents living in close proximity to the site voiced concerns regarding potential noise pollution, dust generation, and increased traffic congestion during the demolition and construction phases. These objections were formally presented to the council's planning committee but ultimately did not sway the decision.
One unnamed resident expressed significant apprehension: "The demolition is going to be a nightmare. There's already a lot of traffic in the area, and this will only make it worse. I'm also worried about the noise and dust - it's going to be awful for weeks, possibly months."
Bury Council acknowledges these concerns and has assured residents that a comprehensive noise management plan will be strictly enforced throughout the demolition process. This plan, details of which are yet to be publicly released, aims to mitigate disruption to both residents and businesses. The council has also stated they will be monitoring air quality for dust levels, and implementing measures to keep them within acceptable limits.
The approved plans detail a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, catering to a range of potential residents, from young professionals to couples and small families. This housing type is particularly desirable in Middle Bury, where demand consistently outstrips supply. The project is expected to contribute to the area's ongoing urban regeneration, potentially attracting further investment and boosting the local economy.
Beyond the immediate impact of the new housing, the development is expected to have a ripple effect on the surrounding businesses. Increased footfall from residents could provide a boost to the Pig & Whistle pub and other establishments in the bar district. However, some business owners worry about potential parking issues and disruptions during construction.
The demolition is anticipated to begin shortly, with the entire project - from demolition to completion of the apartment block - estimated to take approximately 12-18 months. Residents and businesses have been advised to monitor the Bury Council website for updates on the demolition schedule and any potential road closures.
This project is part of a broader trend of urban infill development across Greater Manchester, as councils seek to make the most of existing land within established areas. By repurposing underutilized buildings like the Pennine Street offices, developers aim to address the housing shortage while minimizing the need for greenfield development.
Salboy has a track record of successful residential developments across the North West, and their experience will be crucial in ensuring a smooth and efficient build process. The company is known for its commitment to quality design and sustainable building practices.
The completion of these apartments could mark a turning point for Middle Bury, transitioning it from primarily a nightlife destination to a more balanced and sustainable community. It remains to be seen how the new residents will integrate into the existing fabric of the area, but the development undeniably represents a significant change for this corner of Bury.
Read the Full Manchester Evening News Article at:
[ https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/building-middle-burys-bar-district-33220371 ]