Latest News

DIY SOS Veterans' Village Unveiled in East Manchester

The biggest DIY SOS Big Build ever is now complete and will come to our screens in a two-part special on BBC One on the 14 and 21 October at 8pm.  The programme will feature the visit of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry who gave a helping hand in the renovation.

BTP Architects were part of the team of volunteers undertaking the transformation, which took just two weeks to renovate eight dilapidated houses.  The homes on Canada Street, Newton Heath, Manchester, have been specially adapted to create four homes for veterans and their families, together with a Walking With the Wounded Advice and Therapy Centre. 

The Big Build project has also provided a facelift to all 62 properties on Canada Street and neighbouring New Street while landscaping has created a more welcoming neighbourhood.

BTP Architects were closely involved in all aspects of the scheme including surveying the properties, carrying out the design work to ensure that they met with the requirements of the Veterans and working closely with our partners at Manchester City Council, Planning and Building Control to ensure the project came to fruition.

The second phase of the project will begin shortly, which will see a further 17 empty properties refurbished by charity, Haig Housing.  BTP is looking forward to continuing its involvement and has already started carrying out dilapidation surveys on the remaining properties.  These houses will provide an opportunity for veterans to get on the housing ladder.

The project was made possible as a result of a combined effort by Manchester City Council, charities Walking With The Wounded and Haig Housing, Adactus Housing Group, BTP Architects, key contractors Kier, ISG, Wates, Wilmott-Dixon, Rowlinsons and surveyors Arcus plus supporting contractors and suppliers.

Canada Street (before)

Canada Street (after)

Back to News