Basford House, a decaying Second World War hospital in Old Trafford, is set to be transformed after Trafford council's planning committee unanimously approved a housing scheme that will see 35 new homes built on the historic site. The building, which dates back to 1860 as a private residence, will be restored and converted into six two-bed flats, while 29 houses will be constructed across the remaining land. An area of public open space, including a children's play area, is also planned.
History of the Site
Originally built as a private residence for retired merchant Henry Beecroft Jackson in 1860, the site was later converted into an auxiliary hospital by the British Red Cross during the First World War, caring for wounded soldiers. After closing at the end of the war, it reopened as Stretford Memorial Hospital in 1925 due to local demand. It became part of the NHS in 1948 and treated patients until its final closure in 2015, aside from a brief closure in the 1980s.
Decade of Decline
For over a decade, the building has remained empty, suffering from vandalism and neglect, and has fallen into a state of disrepair deemed 'dangerous'. Councillor Shirley Proctor, Labour, who worked in the building 15 years ago, described it as a stunning building with a spectacular staircase. She said: "Seeing it gradually fall apart over the last 10 years has been heart-breaking because it's a stunning building."
Community Concerns and Approval
Public objections raised concerns over privacy, congestion, highway safety, and the lack of affordable homes. However, planning officers argued that the restoration of Basford House and the delivery of new homes outweighed any negatives. They noted that the high cost of restoring the former hospital made including affordable homes unviable. Councillors agreed, with Liberal Democrat councillor Meena Minnis stating: "There are some issues... but I fear, if we say no, it will be another 10 years or so down the line when something comes forward again and that could be even worse. Eventually, then, Basford House has to get knocked down because it has got to the point where nobody can fix it up."
Approved Plans
The scheme, approved on 11 July 2026, includes 35 homes: six flats in the restored Basford House and 29 new houses. The development also features public open space with a children's play area. Councillor Proctor expressed joy that the building will be restored to its former beauty, despite disappointment over the lack of affordable housing.
