£200m St Michael’s planning application submitted
Revised plans for the £200m St Michael’s development in central Manchester have been submitted to the city council.
The scheme has been brought forward by the St Michael’s Partnership, fronted by former Manchester United and England footballer Gary Neville.
Because of the Christmas holidays, the normal 21-day consultation period for the application has been extended until January 31.
Significantly, the scheme now includes the retention of the Sir Ralph Abercromby pub, fronting on to a new square, and part of the former Bootle Street police station.
If approved, there will be 148,000sq ft of grade A office space, 30,000sq ft of food and beverage space, 189 luxury apartments, a five star 216-bed international hotel with a gym, spa and pool, a 30-bed boutique hotel and two “unique public realms”.
Historic England, which objected to the original proposals for the site at Jackson’s Row and Bootle Street in February, has now welcomed the reworked single-tower project.
Catherine Dewar, planning director, North West at Historic England, said: “We have always acknowledged that development of this site could really help the regeneration of Manchester and that the city deserves a thoughtful, welcoming scheme that contributes to the area and its public realm.
“We welcome that the new proposals keep the Sir Ralph Abercromby pub and part of the former police headquarters. The scheme has also been improved with a new public square next to the pub and creating a more attractive route around and through the site.
“This would all contribute towards improving the Deansgate/Peter Street conservation area and make it more vibrant.”
Speaking on behalf of St Michael’s Partnership, Neville said: “It’s been a long journey, yet throughout it we have always strived hard to achieve our original vision; to create an international attraction unique to Manchester which provides a level of service unseen within the city. I am delighted and excited to be moving this fantastic project forward.”
The architect behind the scheme is Stephen Hodder of Hodder + Partners.
He said: “The proposals seek the much-needed regeneration of this part of the city centre, so close to the civic core. If approved, Jackson’s Row and Bootle Street will be revitalised, and provide a destination in their own right.”
Team members include landscape architects, master planners and urban designers Planit-IE which is designing the outdoor spaces.
Zerum, is acting as the development manager and planning consultant along with strategic planning consultancy Deloitte Real Estate. Engineering consultancy WSP is leading the environment impact assessment process.
