Jersey Street Model Dwellings, Ancoats

MODEL DWELLINGS IN MANCHESTER - The Jersey-street model dwellings, constructed by the Manchester Labourers' Dwelling Company, Limited, were formally opened yesterday morning. The buildings, which have already been described in detail in these columns, were formerly known as the Jersey-Street Mill—a huge fireproof block in the very heart of Ancoats. By the removal of a portion of the old property and an ingenious series of alterations in the remainder, the six-storeyed pile has been converted into comfortable, airy, well-lighted, and sanitary dwelling-houses, comprised in 149 separate tenements. The rents, ranging from 2s. to 4s. 9d. a week, are inclusive of all rates and gas lighting and hot and cold water in each dwelling. Baths and wash-houses are provided for the use of the tenants, and there are also clubrooms for the men and women and a large quadrangular playground for the children. The Company has been formed with a capital of £20,000, in 4,000 shares of £5 each, "the primary motive of the promoters being the advantage of the less-favoured portion of the community, and not the return of large remuneration upon the outlay. as it is intended to afford the very poorest the opportunity of living under healthy conditions without loss of self-respect and independence." While the Company is established upon a commercial rooting, it is not expected that the revenue will admit of dividends exceeding 4 or 5 per cent. The buildings have been open to tenants for about a mouth, 105 of the tenements being already occupied. Including children, the total number of inhabitants is 360. At the opening ceremony, which took place in the large clubroom. Mr. Henry Simon (chairman of the Directors) presided.  … continued with speeches. [Manchester Guardian 31 May 1892 page 9]

Reference    Builder 30 April 1892 Page 344 (with notes)
Reference    British Architect 20 May 1892 Page 372 and 381
Reference    Manchester Guardian 31 May 1892 page 9 - opening