A feasibility study commissioned by English Partnerships and Manchester City Council is recommending the redevelopment of a former postal sorting office on Lever Street in central Manchester as a 32,515 sq m (350,000 sq ft) fashion industry trade centre.
The report recommends that the existing 18,600 sq m (200,000 sq ft) building be stripped back to its frame and redeveloped as five levels of showrooms and exhibition space around a large atrium. The new complex would also provide four levels of parking.
The 1960s building was bought from the post office about three years ago by a private local company. The company forms part of a consortium which plans to operate the property as a “one stop shop” for the trade purchaser.
A second feasibility study – which will provide costings and a business plan for the 30m project – is planned for the autumn. Building Design Partnership and accountant Levy Gee carried out the initial research and have been retained to draw up the detailed report.
EGi News 09/08/96
