Oval shapes up for start on Manchester mixed-use scheme
Summary
Manchester City Council has issued a formal decision notice for Oval Real Estate’s Albert Bridge House redevelopment, following completion of a Section 106 agreement. The scheme will replace the existing office block with two residential towers and a smaller office building, although start on site still depends on Building Safety Regulator Gateway 2 approval.
Why it matters
The project combines a large residential element with high-rise construction, making it relevant to surveyors involved in development appraisal, due diligence and building safety. The viability clawback and Gateway 2 requirement also highlight planning, funding and regulatory issues that can affect scheme delivery and timing.
Key points
- Planning permission has been granted for redevelopment of Albert Bridge House in Manchester.
- The scheme proposes 800 apartments, 250,000 sq ft of workspace and two residential towers of 37 and 49 storeys.
- A viability clawback in the Section 106 could require contributions of up to £14m at a later date.
- Work cannot begin until Gateway 2 approval is secured from the Building Safety Regulator.
- The revised scheme increases housing numbers and reduces office space compared with the earlier version.
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