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GM Towns Ranked Among UK's Least Desirable

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/08/gm-towns-ranked-among-uk-s-least-desirable.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 15:37 GMT by Manchester Evening News
      Locales: Greater Manchester, UNITED KINGDOM

Radcliffe, Failsworth, and Shaw, Greater Manchester - February 8th, 2026 - A new study released today by the HomeOwners Alliance has painted a concerning picture of wellbeing in several Greater Manchester towns, ranking Radcliffe, Failsworth, and Shaw amongst the UK's least desirable places to live. The report, which analyzed a comprehensive range of factors, highlights a growing trend of regional disparity and the impact of socio-economic conditions on quality of life.

The HomeOwners Alliance study didn't rely on subjective opinions, but instead employed a data-driven approach. Researchers examined key metrics encompassing crime rates, health and safety concerns, environmental quality, and access to essential services. The resulting wellbeing scores positioned these Greater Manchester towns at the lower end of the national scale, sparking debate about the underlying issues and potential solutions.

Radcliffe, in particular, received criticism related to perceived lack of safety and a noticeable decline in residents' overall quality of life. While the report doesn't detail specific incidents contributing to these feelings, it suggests a broader pattern of concern within the community. Local residents have been vocal on social media, echoing these sentiments and pointing to issues like limited investment in local infrastructure and a perceived lack of police presence as contributing factors. Further investigation reveals Radcliffe has seen a 12% increase in reported anti-social behaviour incidents in the last two years, a trend local authorities acknowledge but attribute to increased reporting rather than a genuine surge in crime.

Failsworth's low score was largely attributed to a weak sense of community and a perceived lack of opportunities for residents. This suggests a deeper social issue, potentially stemming from limited access to cultural activities, recreational facilities, or employment prospects. The closure of the Failsworth Leisure Centre two years ago, due to budget cuts, is frequently cited by residents as a turning point in community spirit. Experts note that strong social networks are crucial for mental wellbeing and resilience, and their absence can contribute significantly to feelings of isolation and depression.

Shaw faced a double blow, being highlighted for both high crime rates and environmental concerns. While specific crime statistics weren't detailed in the initial report, local police data confirms a higher-than-average incidence of burglaries and vehicle thefts compared to the Greater Manchester average. Environmentally, residents have expressed concern regarding increased industrial activity near residential areas and a lack of green spaces. The legacy of the town's industrial past continues to present challenges in balancing economic development with environmental sustainability.

The report underscores a crucial point: low wellbeing is frequently intertwined with economic hardship and limited opportunities. This isn't a unique problem to Greater Manchester; it reflects challenges facing many towns and cities across the UK. The gap between thriving metropolitan areas and struggling post-industrial towns continues to widen, exacerbating inequalities and leaving many communities feeling left behind.

Interestingly, the study also identified the UK's 'least depressing' places to live, including Wokingham in Berkshire, Solihull in West Midlands and Winchester in Hampshire. These locations consistently rank highly in terms of employment rates, access to healthcare, and green spaces - factors demonstrably linked to higher wellbeing scores. The contrast between these towns and those in Greater Manchester highlights the urgent need for targeted investment and regeneration initiatives.

The average house prices in the affected areas - GBP188,373 in Radcliffe, GBP213,578 in Failsworth, and GBP186,592 in Shaw - suggest that affordability is not necessarily a barrier to entry. However, low house prices can also be an indicator of limited demand and a lack of investment in the local area. Property experts suggest that while these towns offer potential for first-time buyers, prospective residents should carefully consider the broader quality of life factors before making a commitment.

Local council representatives have responded to the report, pledging to work with residents and stakeholders to address the identified issues. Plans are underway to increase police patrols in Shaw, explore options for a new community center in Failsworth, and invest in environmental improvements in Radcliffe. However, long-term solutions will require sustained investment and a collaborative approach between local authorities, community organizations, and private sector partners. The HomeOwners Alliance report serves as a stark reminder that simply building houses isn't enough - creating thriving, resilient communities requires a holistic approach that prioritizes wellbeing, opportunity, and a strong sense of place.