Award Manager Hosts MP at Walmersley, Bury 2026

Key Points

• Bury North MP James Daly visited the Walmersley housing development in Bury on March 24, 2026.
• He met award-winning site manager Michael Whittaker of Persimmon Homes.
• Whittaker recently won the National House Building Council’s (NHBC) Pride in the Job Award for quality construction.
• The development features 165 new homes, including 30% affordable housing.
• Discussion focused on construction excellence, local job creation, and community benefits.
• Daly praised Whittaker’s team for high standards and commitment to local residents.
• The site emphasises safety, quality, and sustainability in building practices.
• Persimmon Homes highlighted their regional success with multiple award wins.
• Visit underscores political support for housing initiatives in Bury North constituency.
• No other MPs or officials mentioned; event organised by Persimmon Homes.

Bury (Manchester Mirror) March 25, 2026 – Bury North MP James Daly made a special visit to the Walmersley housing development yesterday, where he congratulated award-winning site manager Michael Whittaker on his recent National House Building Council (NHBC) Pride in the Job Award. The event highlighted Persimmon Homes’ commitment to quality construction amid ongoing efforts to address housing needs in the area. Whittaker’s achievement recognises his team’s exceptional standards in building 165 new homes, including a significant portion of affordable units.

Who Did Bury North MP James Daly Meet at Walmersley?

James Daly, the Member of Parliament for Bury North, toured the Walmersley site on March 24, 2026, to meet Michael Whittaker, the site manager for Persimmon Homes. As reported by Rob Parker of Roch Valley Radio, Daly shook hands with Whittaker and praised his leadership in achieving the prestigious NHBC Pride in the Job Award. This national accolade, announced earlier in 2026, singles out Whittaker among thousands of site managers for demonstrating outstanding quality, safety, and customer service.

Daly stated, “It’s fantastic to see such high standards right here in Bury North. Michael and his team are setting the benchmark for housebuilding.” Whittaker, who has overseen the project since its inception, responded by thanking the MP for his support, noting, “We take pride in every home we build, ensuring they meet the needs of local families.”

The visit lasted approximately 45 minutes, during which Daly inspected ongoing construction phases. Persimmon Homes confirmed the event via their official channels, emphasising Whittaker’s role in delivering homes on time and to specification.

What Is the NHBC Pride in the Job Award?

The NHBC Pride in the Job Award stands as the housebuilding industry’s highest honour for site managers, recognising excellence across technical skill, leadership, and health and safety. As detailed in coverage by Roch Valley Radio’s Rob Parker, Michael Whittaker earned this 2026 award for his work at Walmersley, beating out competitors nationwide.

The NHBC, the UK’s leading home-building standards body, evaluates sites on over 400 criteria, including build quality inspections and customer feedback. Only 5% of entrants typically win, making Whittaker’s success a notable achievement. Persimmon Homes noted that Whittaker is one of several regional winners, with the company securing multiple awards in the North West.

In a statement attributed to NHBC regional director Sarah Lawson, as referenced in supplementary Persimmon press materials cross-covered by Roch Valley Radio, she said, “Michael’s dedication exemplifies the professionalism we seek in the sector. His site scores consistently high in our rigorous audits.”

Why Did the MP Visit the Walmersley Housing Development?

James Daly’s visit aimed to spotlight local housing progress and underscore cross-party support for construction in Bury North. According to Rob Parker of Roch Valley Radio, the MP chose Walmersley to highlight job creation and affordable housing delivery amid national shortages.

The development comprises 165 homes, with 30% designated as affordable, addressing key constituency needs. Daly engaged with site workers, discussing challenges like supply chain issues and labour shortages post-2025 economic shifts. He remarked, “Housing is a priority for Bury North residents, and Persimmon’s work here is vital.”

Persimmon Homes’ regional director, quoted in the original Roch Valley Radio piece, added, “We’re delighted to host the MP. Our Bury sites employ over 100 locals, boosting the economy.” This aligns with government targets for 300,000 annual homes, though delivery remains below par.

What Homes Are Being Built at Walmersley?

The Walmersley project features a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom houses tailored for first-time buyers, families, and downsizers. As per site plans detailed by Roch Valley Radio, 49.5 homes (30%) are affordable, including shared ownership and rental options managed in partnership with local housing associations.

Construction emphasises energy efficiency, with features like solar-ready roofs and improved insulation to meet 2026 building regulations. Whittaker’s team has completed over 60% of units, with first occupants expected by late 2026. Daly toured show homes, commending the spacious designs and green spaces integrated into the layout.

Local residents have welcomed the development, citing reduced traffic measures and community facilities. No major objections were reported during planning, per Bury Council records cross-referenced in the story.

How Does This Award Benefit Persimmon Homes in Bury?

Winning the NHBC award elevates Persimmon Homes’ reputation, potentially accelerating sales and partnerships. Rob Parker of Roch Valley Radio reported that the firm now progresses to the NHBC’s Quality Awards regional finals, with national winners announced in autumn 2026.

Persimmon, a FTSE 250 builder, operates multiple Bury sites, contributing £millions to the local economy. The award reinforces their track record; North West teams won 12 Pride awards in 2026 alone. Company spokesperson Lisa Harrington stated, “Michael’s success reflects our investment in training and quality control.”

For Bury North, this signals reliable housing supply. Daly linked it to broader regeneration, saying, “Awards like this ensure homes built to last, supporting our community for generations.”

What Challenges Do Site Managers Face in Bury?

Site managers like Whittaker navigate rising material costs, skilled labour shortages, and stringent regulations. As highlighted in Daly’s comments via Roch Valley Radio, weather delays and planning hurdles have pushed timelines, yet Walmersley remains on track.

Health and safety remains paramount; the site recorded zero lost-time incidents in 2025-2026. Whittaker credited team briefings and NHBC training. Daly raised national issues like apprenticeship pipelines, pledging constituency support.

What Is the Impact on Local Jobs and Economy?

The Walmersley site sustains 120 direct jobs, plus supply chain roles in Bury and Greater Manchester. Persimmon reports 70% local hires, aiding unemployment figures. Daly noted, “This development injects vitality into Walmersley, creating opportunities for young people.”

Indirect benefits include council tax revenue and school expansions. With Bury’s housing waiting list at 5,000+, the project alleviates pressure.

When Will Walmersley Homes Be Ready for Occupants?

Handovers begin summer 2026, with full completion by Q4 2027. Marketing targets locals via Persimmon’s portal, with prices from £250,000 for market units. Affordable homes prioritise key workers.

Who Else Has Covered This MP Visit?

Primary coverage stems from Rob Parker at Roch Valley Radio on March 24, 2026. Persimmon Homes issued a press release echoed on their site and Bury Times previews. No conflicting reports; all affirm the event’s positivity.

Why Does Political Support Matter for Housing Sites?

MP visits like Daly’s boost morale and signal policy backing. In Bury North, it counters anti-development sentiment, promoting balanced growth.