Two contentious planning proposals in Manchester are set to be debated again on December 18, 2023, following a heated discussion at a recent meeting. The projects include plans to construct two towering residential blocks on Great Ancoats Street and a redevelopment of the Chorlton Cross shopping precinct. Both applications received extensive criticism from local councillors and residents, who expressed concerns over the designs and their implications for the community.
The proposed development on Great Ancoats Street features 752 homes across two skyscrapers of 25 and 50 storeys. Critics have labeled the design as “another unimaginative cereal box.” Councillor Sam Wheeler of the Labour Party voiced strong disapproval at the last planning meeting, stating, “I do not think I have seen a proposal brought forward with utter contempt for councillors in the area, for residents, and for the council’s policies.” He highlighted that the skyscrapers exceed the height limit established by the strategic regeneration framework, which capped developments at 45 storeys.
Concerns surrounding the height and design of the towers were echoed by local residents, who fear the impact on their neighborhood. Wheeler emphasized that the proposal undermines existing regulations and disregards the voices of those living in the vicinity.
The second contentious proposal involves the redevelopment of the Chorlton Cross shopping precinct by developer PJ Livesey. This plan aims to transform the existing 1970s block into a mixed-use development featuring 262 flats, a new maker’s yard, and retail spaces. However, opposition has been fierce. Activists from the ‘Save Chorlton Centre’ campaign expressed their concerns at the last meeting, with spokesperson Jackie Lindsay arguing that the density of the proposed development is 172 percent above the high-density limit for district centres. She described the project as “massively overbearing” and more suited for a city centre rather than a local community.
Both proposals were deferred last month to allow councillors to conduct site visits and further evaluate the plans. Despite the pushback, they have been recommended for approval by planning officers, raising questions about the balance between development and community needs in Manchester.
In addition to these proposals, other items on the agenda include plans for an extension in Abraham Moss and a project to demolish a former garage on Seymour Road in Crumpsall to create a community, education, and commercial building. There is also a bid to develop recreational facilities at Wythenshawe Park, which would include two artificial football pitches, a multi-use games area, a skate park, and a new pavilion with a café and changing rooms.
As the debate continues, the outcome of these planning applications could have significant implications for Manchester’s urban landscape and its communities. The discussions on December 18 will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents of the developments, as they reflect broader issues of urban planning and community engagement in the city.
