Two office buildings at Altrincham Street, Manchester

What was proposed

The scheme proposed two office buildings, flexible commercial and community uses, changes to railway arches, and alterations to the Hollaway Wall.

“Proposal Phased development comprising: Phase A - demolition of existing buildings and structures, erection of a basement (C1 Building and C2 Building) and a podium across lower ground and upper ground floors comprising flexible commercial space (Class E and/or Sui Generis drinking establishment), erection of a building (C1 Building) to form offices (Class E), landscaping works, highways, access, servicing, infrastructure and other associated works; Phase B: erection of a…”

“Listed building consent for alterations to Sculptural Wall (Hollaway Wall), to encapsulate the wall within new office building (C2 Building), as part of mixed-use development proposals comprising offices use (Class E) and flexible commercial and community uses (Class E, F2 and/ or Sui Generis- drinking establishment).”

Officer report

The site and its setting

The 2.2-hectare site formed part of the ID Manchester regeneration area and included former university buildings, listed structures, public art and mature trees.

“ID Manchester (The Applicant) is a JV between Bruntwood SciTech and the University of Manchester which formed to deliver a commercially led mixed use development on the Campus. The project has been re-named ‘SISTER’. The buildings in the area have largely been vacant since 2022. The campus is characterised by modernist buildings.”

“There is a significant level change of 5 m across the site from north east down to the south west. The level change is reconciled by the Butterfly Stairs to the west of the Barnes Wallis and Wright Robinson Buildings. Lower Albion Street cuts through the site from north to south.”

Officer report

Earlier site position

The site’s buildings had largely been vacant since 2022, and Certificates of Immunity from Listing were granted to several buildings and structures in 2024.

“Historic England granted Certificates of Immunity from Listing in respect of the Barnes Wallis and Wright Robinson Building, Morton Laboratory, MMP and the Butterfly Stairs in October 2024 along with the Moffat Building.”

Officer report

Who spoke

No objector attended, while the applicant’s agent supported the scheme and described its jobs, public realm, heritage and environmental benefits.

What members said

Councillor Andrews moved the recommendations, and Councillor Kilpatrick supported them, describing the application as high quality and an example for other developers.

“Councillor Andrews moved the officer’s recommendations for all 3 applications.”

“Councillor Kilpatrick seconded the motion, noting that this was a high quality app that sets an example for other developers.”

Minutes

The committee vote

The committee resolved to support the planning application and approve both listed building consent applications.

“For the reasons and subject to the conditions set out in the reports, the Committee resolved to be Minded to Approve for Planning application 143024/FO/2025, subject to the signing of a legal agreement to secure a BNG monitoring fee and the retention of the project architect and resolved to approve the Listed Building Consent for applications 143060/LO/2025 and 143025/LO/2025.”

Minutes