Manchester is not slowing down when it comes to developing, and redeveloping, every unused corner of the city, and now a brand new district has been announced to accompany the restoration of the iconic Kendals building – AKA the former House of Fraser. Relentless Developments is set to announce plans for a new mixed-use neighbourhood in the city, known as the Kendals District, spearheaded by the redevelopment of the former department store.
Speaking at MIPIM (Making the Grade: Future Proofing Manchester’s Commercial Portfolio), CEO Anthony Kilbride reveals multi-stakeholder plans for six transformational sites, five of which will be led by Relentless, blending Grade A workspace, hospitality and leisure facilities with a luxury hotel and branded residences, set within new public realm and cultural space.
Restoration of the Kendal Milne building
At its heart, the ambitious retrofit of the iconic Kendal Milne building on Deansgate, driven by a partnership between Relentless, Investec and supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), will create 230k sq ft of modern, prime office space, along with an extensive F&B and retail provision.
Last year, the GMCA announced £44m of funding from the Good Growth Fund for the project, providing a catalyst for a much larger urban transformation, which in five years’ time will be an established and internationally-renowned destination for business, hospitality and culture.
Anthony Kilbride, CEO of Relentless Developments, said: “Kendals is a complex heritage retrofit that has demanded real conviction, not just in the building itself, but in the wider vision for this part of the city. As one of Manchester’s most recognisable landmarks, this high-impact site is perfectly positioned to anchor district-scale regeneration and act as a true gateway to a new neighbourhood.
“What we are bringing forward with the Kendals District is not piecemeal development; it is a coherent, carefully planned quarter that brings together workspace, hospitality, culture and public realm in a way that creates long-term value for the city. It demonstrates how effective public-private collaboration can unlock growth, accelerate delivery and create places of genuine economic and social impact.
“The retrofit of the former Kendal Milne building will set the tone for what follows: thoughtfully designed, highly sustainable space that prioritises wellbeing and flexibility, meeting the evolving needs of modern occupiers while respecting the heritage of the site.”
Cllr Bev Craig OBE, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Good Growth is about creating investment opportunities that create a lasting impact to the fabric of our city. While this is often about supporting new development to create growth, it is as much about using the incredible assets we already have in Manchester.
“Kendals is a prime example of this approach – breathing new life into an iconic heritage building to not only ensure its long-term future, but to create a platform for a new city centre district to deliver growth at scale and with ambition.”
Relentless’ St Michaels development
Relentless’ role in the Kendals District follows the huge success of its St Michael’s development on Jackson’s Row where the developer is partnering with Marriott International to play host to a 162-room W Hotel and 217 W Residences within a 43-storey tower.
Meanwhile, seven floors of prime office space, a rooftop restaurant and ground floor coffee bar and restaurant can be found at No.1 St Michael’s, which was fully let prior to completion.
