Manchester’s skyline is constantly changing, and whether you’re a fan or not, it’s pretty much inevitable. Now, developers have announced refreshed plans for the next phase of development on the Viadux site, bringing new residential homes and commercial space to Manchester city centre with Phase Two.
Located in between Manchester Central Convention Complex and Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink station, proposals include plans for an exciting development that will bring over 900 new homes including approximately 130 affordable homes, a commercial offering, and public spaces. Beetham Tower is currently Manchester’s tallest building with 47 storeys however this new development will reach greater heights.
To the north is the city’s civic quarter, home to some of Manchester’s most important heritage assets and public spaces, including the Grade II* Manchester Central immediately to the north. To the south of the proposed Viadux Phase Two, the now iconic collection of residential towers in Manchester Deansgate Square have changed the city’s skyline in recent years.
The majority of the site comprises the Grade II Listed Castlefield Viaduct, a beautiful reminder of city’s history and contribution to the industrial revolution. Viadux Phase Two will create a composition of buildings which fit perfectly into this part of the city centre, building upon the Viadux Phase One design principles, and completes the city centre block which extends from Deansgate to Albion Street.
Working with architectural practice SimpsonHaugh, these proposals build upon the Viadux Phase One residential development, a simple and elegant building with a ‘fin’ façade design which has been under construction since 2020 and is due for completion by summer 2024.
Identified as a key regeneration priority by Manchester City Council, Phase Two provides the opportunity to deliver new affordable homes to the city centre’s housing offer, together with commercial spaces to support the city’s economic growth. As part of this, the plans include 130 affordable homes in a 23-storey building that contribute towards the need for city centre affordable housing.
The footways and public realm around Great Bridgewater Street and Albion Street will be transformed, bringing this part of the city centre back as a place that people feel safe walking through day or night, and want to spend time. In addition, the historic Castlefield Viaduct will be enlivened and opened out for people to appreciate and enjoy, so we’re looking forward to seeing the transformation of the area in years to come.
The new Viadux Phase Two development is set to compete with the Renaker skyscraper that was proposed earlier this year, which is planned to be a whopping 70 storeys high, just a stone’s throw away from the Viadux site, over in Deansgate Square where several luxury high-rises have made a home.
The consultation on the design proposals for Viadux Phase Two are now open until December 22, 2023 and an online feedback form where you can have your say can be completed here.