English Heritage has lodged an objection to the proposed redevelopment of Manchester’s iconic Corn Exchange into a fine dining centre.
The plans, expected to be approved this week, will see Aviva create 74,000 sq ft of restaurant space out of the existing first three floors of shops.
A 33,500 sq ft shop will also be created on the lower ground floor, with two five-metre glass extensions to the building.
English Heritage has lodged an objection that the proposed extensions – considered key to the scheme – are “out of keeping with the character of the building.”
Though the heritage body accepted the extensions in principle, they objected to the precise designs, recommending that further alternative options be explored, including a number of changes to the proposed colour scheme and building materials.
Chris.berkin@estatesgazette.com
