The 1960s new build

Cost was a major factor and the emphasis was on the quantity of the new housing stock, with large numbers of people being relocated to new areas with new neighbours. Much of this new housing consisted of high-rise blocks of flats or large high-density crescents located in new out-of-town estates on greenfield sites or on recently cleared inner city area brownfield sites.

The term greenfield sites refers to land which has not previously been developed and is therefore unspoiled, whereas brownfield sites have previously been developed and require clearance.

Internal photograph of Hulme Crescent, Manchester, just before it was due to be demolished.

The building on greenfield sites has historically been more popular with developers since it does not carry the costs of demolition and cleanup associated with brownfield sites. Unlike the previous terraced housing, green space was considered essential and large green areas were landscaped between high-rise blocks and crescents to provide open space for the residents to use.