Developers are poised to transform Ancoats with two towering structures that builders say could 'set the standards' for the neighbourhood.
The ambitious plans, initially unveiled last October, target the site of the former Stockton's furniture shop at the junction of Store Street and Great Ancoats Street. Developer Liquid Funding Business (LFB) has now confirmed the final details of the project in a planning application submitted in late May.
LFB aims to erect a 50-storey residential tower alongside a 25-storey block comprising offices and apartments on the plot, which has been on the market since 2020.
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"We are thrilled to present our vision for the future of Ancoats," LFB's Daniel Green said in October. "This development represents a significant investment in the area, providing much-needed housing and commercial opportunities while enhancing the public realm.
"Our development will complement the proposals for Central Retail Park as well as set the standard for future developments coming forward in the area."
Building A, the taller of the two, is set to house 558 flats. Its smaller counterpart, Building B, will accommodate 200 apartments and offer 43,000 sq ft of office space.
The duo of buildings will also include spaces for cafes and shops, with 262 one-bedroom flats, 486 two-bedroom, and 10 three-bedroom apartments across them.
The planning application lists all 758 homes as 'market housing', indicating that no affordable housing options have been incorporated into the development.
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The development plans do not include car parking spaces, but propose 974 cycle storage spots for residents and workers.
A significant feature of the project is a large new square, filled with greenery and seating areas, surrounding both buildings. LFB states that approximately 55% of the site will be transformed into public realm, exceeding the 30-40% earmarked by Manchester council in their 2022 regeneration blueprint.
However, the same document stipulates a maximum height of 45 storeys for any towers, suggesting that LFB's proposal may need to be adjusted to align with council guidelines.
Further development is anticipated on the opposite side of Great Ancoats Street, following recent approval for a Civil Service campus to be built on the former Central Retail Park. The hub is expected to employ around 7,000 people once completed, with plans also in place for a new city centre park in the area.
The planning application is open for viewing and comments until May 30 .