Application goes in for 13-storey Bridgewater Point

A PLANNING application for a new 13-storey tower at a key gateway to Manchester centre near the Bridgewater viaduct in Castlefield has been submitted.

Planning consultancy Turley has tabled the proposal on behalf of Knott Mill Securities the scheme’s developer for 53 homes and a ground floor commercial unit, designed by Ombler Iwanowski Architects.

The apartments at Bridgewater Point comprise a mix of one and two-bedroom homes, each of which will exceed recognised space standards.

The building will be set within its own garden, and each home will benefit from a private balcony, providing excellent views over the city centre and the Castlefield Basin.

The site lies on the edge of the Great Jackson Street regeneration area of Manchester. Deansgate South is also set to play a key role in the area’s redevelopment, adding momentum to what has already begun in this part of the city centre.

The scheme has evolved through public consultation held in October 2015, which was co-ordinated by Turley Engagement.

One of the key challenges to overcome in preparing the application was the preservation of key heritage assets nearby.

Turley’s Heritage team undertook an assessment of listed buildings nearby, including Manchester Central, as well the Castlefield Conservation Area as part of the proposal.

Stephen Bell, Manchester office director at Turley, said: “This development provides an excellent opportunity to deliver a high-quality building at a key and prominent gateway to the city centre. This scheme will set the tone for the Great Jackson Street Quarter and will add impetus to the revitalisation of this area of the city.”

It is hoped that a decision on the planning application will be announced in February 2016.