Allied London is planning to extend its £1.5bn St John’s masterplan in Manchester to create a “multi-use space for innovation, cultural experience and enterprise.”
According to an updated regeneration framework, Allied London is planning to extend St John’s towards Deansgate, incorporating Liverpool Road, the Upper and Lower Campfield markets and the Museum of Science and Industry.
The revised framework drawn up by Manchester City Council chief executive Sir Howard Bernstein has been recommended for approval by the council’s executive at a meeting on 27 July.
It comes after Allied London strategically bought Castlefield House, a 32,000 sq ft office building situated between the two warehouses.
Upper Campfield Market is Grade-II listed and vacant. Lower Campfield Market is currently used by the MSI’s Air and Space Gallery.
The updated framework suggests creating a multi-use space incorporating events, flexible workspace and co-working space while possibly retaining some key museum exhibits.
The extension would form part of a proposed “creative district” linking the £110m Factory events space to the market buildings and MSI.
Allied London formed a joint venture with Manchester City Council, Manchester Quays, to deliver the 15-acre St John’s neighbourhood on the site of the Old Granada Studios. The masterplan, which is due to be delivered in phases by 2022, includes 2,500 homes, 600,000 sq ft of workspace and 400,000 sq ft of leisure space.
• To send feedback, email louisa.clarence-smith@estatesgazette.com or tweet @LouisaClarence or @estatesgazette
