Proposals were approved by Manchester City Council’s Planning Committee today, with the site set to become a world class office and retail destination as early as 2024.
The ‘Kendals’ development – brought forward by the site’s owner, Investec, and designed by Manchester-based Sheppard Robson Architects – will deliver around 500,000sq ft of Grade A office space to the city centre. This will be achieved by reviving the existing landmark Grade II Listed Kendal Building and redeveloping the multi-storey car park site to its rear.
The development will still provide high-quality retail space on the lower floors and particularly along the high-profile Deansgate frontage, but of a scale which is sustainable and consistent with current and projected retail market demands.
The regeneration of the site will also see considerable enhancements to the surrounding streets – directly supporting Manchester City Council’s ambitions to introduce more integrated public realm, prioritise pedestrians and cyclists and reduce carbon emissions within the city centre.
With plans now approved, the project team is looking forward to the construction phase of the scheme and the process of appointing a construction contractor.
