Proposals for the £78m redevelopment of Manchester’s former Union Bank building and the addition of a new-built element to it have been approved by the city council.
The decision was made earlier today in line with the planning officer’s recommendation last week.
The scheme, to be delivered by Northside, features the construction of a 34-storey tower on the site at 14-16 Piccadilly and repurposing the adjacent former Union Bank building at 12 Piccadilly into a 251-bedroom aparthotel. It will comprise a mix of studios and one- and two-bedroom units, and upon completion will be operated by room2.
The plans, designed by Bennetts Associates, also include a ground-floor café, first-floor exhibition hall and a rooftop bar and restaurant.
The Grade II listed building has remained unoccupied for more than a decade and is in urgent need of repair and restoration to safeguard its heritage for future generations.
Overall, the development is targeting a BREEAM Excellent accreditation at a minimum, as well as WELL Gold and EPC A ratings.
Simon Erridge, director at Bennetts Associates, said: “This is an ambitious scheme, which reimagines a vital part of the city and will transform Manchester’s skyline with the addition of a new landmark. The project will revitalise a currently vacant and unloved site, replacing it with an active and accessible building, and the listed Union Bank’s key spaces will be restored and reopened to visitors and guests alike.”
Vanessa Rowell, associate at Avison Young, which advised on planning matters, said: “This development will serve as a model for how cities can grow responsibly and innovatively while enhancing the quality of life for both residents and visitors.”
Robert Godwin, chief executive of Lamington Group, room2’s parent company, added: “Approval for this building represents a leap further forwards for Lamington Group and its commitment to delivering highly sustainable real estate, fit for the city of tomorrow. This building aims to set new benchmarks for net zero at this height in the UK and beyond, and we are to announce further innovations within it soon.”
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Image © Bennetts Associates
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