Build-to-rent scheme delivers 201 apartments
Contractor, Graham, has completed building work at Weavers Quay – the waterfront build-to-rent scheme in New Islington, East Manchester.
The 201-apartment scheme on New Islington Marina and close to the New Islington tram stop comprises 64 one-bedroom, 127 two-bedroom and 10 three-bedroom apartments.
The development includes 64 car parking spaces, a 24/7 concierge, secure cycle storage and a resident’s club room for tenants. Gym access is provided at neighbouring Cotton Field Wharf.
Weavers Quay is Manchester Life’s sixth and final phase one development across Ancoats and New Islington.
In total, this has delivered 155 to buy and 860 rental homes and more than 23,000 sq ft of commercial space.
The project was awarded to Graham through the Manchester Life framework, with work starting on site in June 2017 and completing three weeks prior to the handover deadline.
Jennifer Bendik, chief operating officer at Manchester Life, said: “Manchester Life’s mission is to redefine the standards of Manchester’s rental market by delivering outstanding homes and customer service for Manchester’s professional population. The pace of lettings is a demonstration of the desirability of Weavers Quay and the New Islington waterside location.”
Graham, which has offices in Manchester and Liverpool, undertook a range of CSR initiatives while delivering the project, including support for local charities such as Manchester Mind, the Frost Foundation, local food banks and Prostate Cancer UK.
The project also hosted educational site visits for students at the University of Salford.
The firm said 54% of the project workforce came from the surrounding area, with 79 construction jobs created.
Graham regional director, Jonathan Hall, said: “Graham has a strong reputation for delivering high-quality, large-scale residential developments and our work on Weavers Quay has exemplified this. We are delighted to have participated in two Manchester Life Phase One developments.
“The private rented sector in Manchester is thriving, and Manchester Life’s developments across Ancoats and New Islington have helped make this the most in-demand and vibrant neighbourhood within the city.
“There is tremendous potential in Manchester and across the North for schemes of this quality, and we’re looking forward to playing a key role in the delivery of more developments in the region.”
