Great Northern Design Row Causes Re-think

Confidentials 24 April 2016

HERE comes a press release from the three city centre councillors. This refers to the theme of our story here.

That drawing was the final straw for people who value the square’s public realm

'We are really pleased to hear that the current consultation on a Strategic Regeneration Framework for Great Northern Warehouse has been withdrawn for further review.

'This follows considerable input in the early consultation stage from Councillor Joan Davies and from local residents, as well as other stakeholders. Manchester City Council officers identified a need for more detailed analysis.

'Councillor Joan Davies said ‘We’re delighted. The points residents and councillors raised have been heard and the SRF is under review. We know it will return and we do want to see the complex better used. Great Northern Warehouse is a magnificent building with great potential and the Square and amphitheatre can be a delightful location, as last week’s sunny weather showed.”

'The draft SRF proposed a building ‘on piloti’ at the junction with Peter Street and Watson Street. A drawing emerged on social media which showed what Cllr Joan Davies described as a ‘giant sci-fi insect’ built across the existing bar and encroaching on much valued public realm. Nobody seemed to know how serious a proposal this was.

“That drawing was the final straw for people who value the square’s public realm,” said Councillor Davies. “That public space has been messed around with far too much over the past few years. It’s there for public benefit, rather than private gain. Occasional events are fine, but permanent structures are a no-no, as understood in a planning agreement dating back nearly 20 years.”

'At present there is no timetable for the new framework consultation. Residents can join the councillors’ mailing list if they’d like to be kept informed. cllr.j.davies@manchester.gov.uk '

Maybe as discussed in our article mentioned above, the worm has turned, maybe ears are cocked in the halls of power and the chambers of finance.

Anyway it's good to see there's humour in those who weren't keen on the new building. This vertical extension would have been very al-llama-ring but personally I think it would introduce an element of fun into Manchester's urban environment.