The increased attention and interest in Manchester’s property scene has been on a continuous rise over the past few years, as more people than ever look to live and invest in the city. This demand has led to the development of several exciting residential structures, with the latest proposal coming in the form of a 44-storey building in the heart of the city centre.
The planning application, submitted to Manchester’s City Council by developers Glenbrook, outlines the vast tower which would provide 364 apartments in a central location with strong transport links nearby.
If approved, this building could provide great opportunities for architecture jobs in Manchester and property jobs in Manchester due to the array of talent needed to pull off such substantial project.
Alongside the ambitious scale of the structure, one of the main elements that makes this project standout is the building’s design, with plans to ‘embrace modern, sustainable principles and be rooted in its context through new public spaces that enhance the streetscape and improve pedestrian connections.’
Whilst the proposed structure itself would be a modern addition to this part of the city, the outer design draws upon the heritage of the area, with nods to its industrial past through the colours and tones utilised as well as the arched structures deployed. The modern technology planned for this space would help to improve vital areas such as performance, ventilation and daylight whilst simultaneously reflecting the unique viaduct designs in the structure.
The venture would also have the potential to contribute to the surrounding area as well, with a newly created landscaped public space surrounding the building designed to increase biodiversity in this urban space. This would also be complimented by a commitment to sustainability through energy efficient technologies to support a low-carbon operating system for the building.
Development Director at Glenbrook, Daniel Roberts, states that ‘working closely with our environmental consultant and wider design team, we have explored every opportunity to reduce the development’s carbon footprint, resulting in the current scheme exceeding RIBA’s 2030 Climate Change Target credentials. The building has been designed to incorporate a range of renewable technologies and smart systems that promote efficiency and will reduce carbon in construction and operation.’
If the project is approved, developers Sheppard Robson hope to start work on the structure in early 2026. Partner at Sheppard Robson, Tony O’Brien, stated that ‘by opening up the site, we are creating vibrant public spaces and pathways that enhance connections across this part of the city.’
O’Brien also went on to state that ‘the building’s terracotta, high-performance façade references both the existing and historic context, while introducing a distinctly modern addition to the evolving skyline of Manchester.’
As interest in Manchester’s property scene increases, so does the need for exciting new architectural ventures, and if approved, this structure could provide residential space in a key city centre location, whilst also having an impact on Manchester’s architectural identity due to its size and scale. It will be interesting to see if it does receive approval, and if so if other similarly ambitious projects will follow in the future.