Jackson’s Wharf block set for approval

PEEL Holdings’ revised plans for a residential block in Castlefield are set to be approved by councillors in Manchester when they meet on October 28.

The developer had a different scheme for 118 apartments thrown out by a Government inspector in early 2009 following an appeal.

Ian Simpson Architects has been hired again to draw up new designs for a V-shaped, six-storey red brick building containing 88 flats on the site of the boarded up Jackson’s Wharf pub.

Peel’s first proposal for a glass-walled development was deemed out of character for the Castlefield canal basin which is a conservation area home to a number of low rise brick warehouses converted into offices and apartments.

According to the council residents generally prefer the new scheme but objections have been made complaining about the overdevelopment of the site, the loss of light and open space, and the “out of character” nature of the scheme.

There were also concerns about the disturbance caused by future building work and the impact of the scheme on property prices.

“It is acknowledged that any development on this site would have an impact on existing residents and businesses,” said planning officers in their report ahead of the meeting. “However, it is considered that the impacts on the amenities of occupiers of neighbouring properties would be acceptable.”

They added: “The proposed scheme is modern but would still respect the characteristics of Castlefield conservation area and would sit comfortably alongside and within the historic buildings and landscape.”

A separate application to demolish the Jackson’s Wharf pub is also set to be approved.