The Redevelopment of Central Retail Park in Manchester
The council in Manchester has recently initiated a public consultation process for the redevelopment of the Central Retail Park in the city. This follows the approval of an updated Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF) in March 2023, outlining the development principles for the site. The primary objectives include the creation of low carbon commercial office space and the establishment of high-quality, accessible green spaces to support the ongoing economic growth in this area of Manchester’s city center.
New Manchester Digital Campus
In a significant move, the Government Property Agency (GPA) finalized the acquisition of five acres of the former Central Retail Park in Ancoats from the city council in May this year. The purpose behind this acquisition is to construct a state-of-the-art government digital campus. This new office complex will serve as the hub for various Civil Service departments, with a particular focus on digital skills development.
Upon completion, the digital campus is expected to house approximately 7,000 civil servants, presenting substantial opportunities for employment and broader economic growth in the region.
New City Centre Park
As part of the redevelopment plans, a new city center park is being designed in collaboration with landscape architects Planit-IE. This green space aims to address the demand for quality and attractive outdoor areas in the city center. Additionally, the park will enhance accessibility to the existing Cotton Field Park and Ancoats Marina.
The design of the new park includes provisions for new walking routes, creating connections to other active travel investments in Ancoats, Northern Quarter, and the Etihad Campus area. Following consultation, detailed design work will continue to ensure that the park space is comparable in size and quality to Ancoats Green, which is currently undergoing redevelopment.
The development of the remaining areas of the site will be undertaken in subsequent phases. Further information regarding these plans will be shared in due course.
Engagement and Consultation Process
Bev Craig, the leader of Manchester City Council, expressed enthusiasm about the potential of the site and the proposed developments. She highlighted the significance of the new city center park and digital campus in aligning with the council’s aspirations for the area. The introduction of 7,000 civil servant jobs and the enhancement of green spaces are poised to benefit the local community and city as a whole.
The council is actively seeking feedback from residents, businesses, and stakeholders through a public consultation process scheduled to commence on Tuesday, September 10. Interested parties can provide their input online or attend in-person consultation events at Halle St Peter’s in Ancoats. The consultation aims to gather valuable insights to guide the investment decisions that will have a lasting impact on the residents of Manchester.
For those requiring assistance or without internet access, a dedicated phone line has been set up for inquiries. The consultation period will run until September 23, 2024, after which the proposals will be finalized, and separate planning applications will be submitted later in the year.
As the redevelopment plans for the Central Retail Park in Manchester take shape, the city is poised to witness a transformation that will not only enhance its infrastructure but also create new opportunities for employment, recreation, and economic growth. The collaborative efforts of the council, government agencies, and stakeholders reflect a commitment to sustainable development and community engagement, ensuring that the future of Manchester remains vibrant and inclusive.