Over the past 24 months we have seen drastic change in the city, the skyline seems to be constantly evolving and the city is beginning to feel like manc-hattan. A futuristic, Sci-Fi esque Manchester is slowly becoming a reality. Some welcome the change and others are more reluctant, describing some of the new build as “tacky”. 

The silhouette of the city is expected to be expanded even further this year as more planned construction projects are underway. 

But what will the new buildings look like?

Blade and Cylinder 

Part of Renaker’s new Crown Street located development – Blade and Cylinder will provide 855 apartments, a primary school with a rooftop playground, one two and three bed housing and a public park. The 52 storey skyscrapers will stand just outside the city centre next to the Mancunian Way.

The scheme is part of a regeneration plan for Greater Jackson Street.

First Street

This next development has stirred up some controversy, being labelled as the “slums of the future” by housing counselors and campaigners. The developer, Downing’s plan for the site to be a co-living initiative located just outside the city centre in Hulme.

Construction is planned to go ahead September this year.

Mayfield

The £1.4 billion regeneration project for Mayfield Depot is one of the biggest regeneration schemes in the UK and is going to completely change the area to be desired for living and visiting. 

The first phase of development focuses on Mayfield Park which will be the largest public park in the city centre, covering 6.5 acres of land. Following will be the construction of new offices buildings which will reach 13 and 9 storeys, providing 319,900sq of new workspace.

Developers are hoping the site will be ready and open to the public by 2023.

The Factory 

The new landmark arts complex – it’s set to be the new home of the MIF (Manchester International Festival) and described as a “world class cultural space”.

The fund for the project comes from the UK government’s Cultural Recovery Fund package with a  total of £120 million allocated to construction of The Factory. The landmark building is also supported by Manchester City Council who have invested £20m into the project. Once complete, The Factory is said to be one of the most versatile and ambitious creative spaces in the world.

Oxygen

The new luxury living complex located in Piccadilly will house 372 one and two bedroom apartments and a dozen ground level townhouses. The structure will also feature a five-star spa with a 25 metre pool and residents can enjoy a private cinema  and fitness studio.

The building is said to be completed by the end of 2021.