Halifax Courier exclusive: Two landmark Halifax tower blocks set to be demolished

Together Housing has written to former residents of St James Court and Albion Court to let them know it is applying for permission for the demolition of the tower blocks.

Calderdale’s largest landlord announced it was emptying the buildings in June 2024 because it said both needed work that would cause “substantial disruption” to residents if it were carried out.

Of a total of 152 flats in the two high-rise buildings, 130 were occupied at the time but all residents have since moved elsewhere.

Built in the 1950s, the buildings have served the people of Halifax for many decades.

But Together Housing says changing building safety requirements, introduced following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, mean that substantial investment would now be required to bring the blocks up to the standards expected for the future.

A spokesperson for the social landlord told the Courier that over the last year, it has worked closely with residents to help them move while detailed surveys and assessments were carried out.

All have now moved into new homes, with many choosing to remain in central Halifax.

Together Housing says the surveys confirmed that the scale of work required to the buildings would be “significant” and “would not represent the best long-term investment in providing safe, modern and comfortable homes”.

As a result, a demolition application will be submitted and timescales will be confirmed once the planning process is underway.

Together Housing says it knows residents will be keen to know what will happen next to the site of the tower blocks if they are demolished.

It says it is working with Calderdale Council, West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Homes England on plans for new homes “in this area”, and will share more information about the future of the site when it becomes available.

“We recognise that the currently vacant buildings are a prominent feature of the Halifax skyline and that local people are keen to understand what comes next,” said the spokesperson.

“Together Housing remains committed to investing in Halifax and ensuring high-quality housing is available for local residents.

“The future of the site forms an important part of wider regeneration ambitions for the town.

“As plans develop, we will continue to work with partners and stakeholders to explore opportunities for new housing that meets the needs of current and future residents.

“While St James and Albion Court presented unique challenges due to their age, design and investment requirements, Together Housing remains committed to maintaining, improving and modernising homes across Halifax and throughout the areas we serve.”

Patrick Berry, executive director of property at Together Housing, said: “This decision follows extensive surveys and careful consideration of the long-term future of the buildings.

“Our priority has always been the safety and well-being of residents, and we are delighted that everyone has successfully moved into new homes.

“We remain committed to investing in Halifax and creating high-quality homes that will serve local people for generations to come.”