We Can Do the Whole Journey | Howard Lord Talks to Insider
News
Our founder, Howard Lord, recently spoke to Insider Media about the journey behind CERT Property,
We have unveiled, alongside True North Partnerships, the redevelopment of Droylsden Marina, bringing forward 192 high‑quality, design‑led affordable homes as part of the town’s wider regeneration strategy. We will be supported by Legal & General, who will act as the Registered Provider for the affordable housing.
Located on a long‑vacant site between Manchester Road and the waterfront, our plans propose three apartment buildings and a series of duplex homes at ground level, arranged to maximise views across the Marina, Ashton Canal and towards the Pennines and Manchester city centre. Our new development also includes a proposed community hub, helping to activate the waterfront and strengthen a thriving community and connections between the Marina and Droylsden town centre.
The plan forms part of a wider regeneration strategy for Droylsden, with the Marina identified as a key transformational area. We aim to reinforce the waterfront as a focal point, improving connections between Manchester Road and the Marina, and contribute to a renewed sense of place that attracts people to live, work and invest in the town.
In keeping with the area’s character and the emerging vision for Droylsden, the proposal is to take inspiration from local materials and building forms, with articulated massing, contemporary brick detailing and active street frontages. Landscaped communal spaces between buildings will support recreation, social interaction and natural surveillance, while 100% secure cycle storage and 35 surface parking spaces promote sustainable and accessible living.
Gareth Walsh, Director, True North Partnerships comments:
“This is a special opportunity to deliver 100% affordable homes in a location that truly deserves them. Droylsden has a brilliant community spirit, and our partnership with CERT, Legal & General and Tameside Council is focused on making sure local people can be part of the Marina’s next chapter — whether that’s their first home, a family home, or somewhere to settle for the long term. We can’t wait to hear from residents at the consultation.”
Stephen Oster, Head of our Acquisitions and Development, adds:
“Droylsden Marina is a unique waterside location with huge potential, and we’re pleased to share our joint vision with True North Partnerships to deliver 100% affordable homes that contribute to a thriving, well‑connected town centre. This consultation marks an important milestone in shaping a development that reflects local priorities and supports Tameside Council’s long‑term ambitions for the area. We look forward to hearing the community’s views as we refine the proposals ahead of submitting a planning application.”
We are inviting residents, businesses and community stakeholders to review the emerging proposals and share their feedback before the planning application is submitted. A drop‑in public consultation event will take place at Droylsden Library on Wednesday, 29th April 2026, between 4pm – 7pm. Attendees will be able to view the plans, speak to members of the project team and provide feedback.
For those unable to attend in person, the proposals and a short questionnaire are available online at: droylsdenmarinaconsultation.co.uk. Feedback can be submitted until 5th May 2026.
Bowker Sadler is leading the architectural design, and Enabl is advising on planning.
The Droylsden Marina proposals follow a period of strong momentum for us. We are set to complete our Manchester Build‑to‑Rent scheme, SONA in Ardwick, in H1 2026, alongside Centric, our first residential development in Liverpool, located opposite Moorfields station. All projects will be managed by our in‑house property management team upon completion, alongside our growing BTR, Commercial, BTL, Leasehold and Industrial portfolio.
