In a move to aid the regeneration of the Great Jackson Street Framework, Manchester City Council has approved West Properties’ planned Owen Street development. The development, which will be part of the re-invigoration of the brownfield site, form a section of the council’s strategic plan for the area and will incorporate local amenities alongside stunning Ian Simpson-designed towers.

West Properties, who exist as one of the strongest leaders in Manchester’s continuing urban renewal, plan to create the five-towered complex as a site of environmental consciousness, much like their Princess Street development, Origin. Not only do the landscaped public spaces and residential gardens make Owen Street visually green, but West Properties plan to continue this environmental focus with eco-friendly solutions such as biomass technology, solar energy and the re-introduction of the ground source heat pump currently being installed at Origin.

Ranging from 13 to 49 storeys along with a new river walkway, ‘coffee pods’ and raised gardens suspended above shops, restaurants and offices, Owen Street will provide the modern urbanite with all the contemporaneity of Manchester living. Donal Mulryan, chief executive of West Properties, comments on the plans, which provide 1,094 apartments, 100 serviced apartments, a 209 bed hotel and a 36,000 sq ft gym and swimming pool facility: “We’re creating an all encompassing city centre destination with cutting edge architecture and much needed public space.  Manchester needs world class developments like this if the city is to compete on the international stage.  We must get the right mix of residential, commercial and leisure space to drive the regeneration of the area.”

West Properties’ developmental plans have been well-received by the public as well as Manchester City Council, and work is expected to commence on site in November 2008.