Plans have been unveiled for the tallest building in Manchester – which would stretch 76 storeys high and feature 780 apartments.
Developers Salboy and Domis are behind the proposed plans, which would be the second phase of the Viadux project, the first phase of which is the 40 storey tower about to be finished on the former Bauer Millet showroom site by Deansgate-Castlefield tram stop and behind Manchester Central.
The tower is set to be taller than Renaker’s 71 storey tower The Lighthouse, the foundations of which are currently being dug out next to the Deansgate Square apartment buildings.
To be built in two phases, the 76 tower will be built alongside a smaller 23 storey tower. In all, the development will provide 900 new dwellings, including 130 affordable apartments.
The new tower will dwarf the nearby Beetham Tower, which at 47 storeys and 554 feet was the tallest building in Manchester for 12 years before being topped by the South Tower at Deansgate Square at 659 feet.
According to the consultation website, which has just been launched, ‘Phase Two provides the opportunity to deliver new affordable homes to the city centre’s housing offer, together with commercial spaces to support the city’s economic growth’.
It goes on: “This sensitive and dynamic townscape demands a building of the very highest design quality, that protects and celebrates the quality of the Victorian viaduct arches, whilst making a genuinely positive contribution to Manchester’s skyline and returning the streetscape to its citizens.
“The tallest 76-storey building will create an elegant silhouette which will become an iconic feature in the skyline. The inclined faces of the façade will catch light differently, creating a dynamic response to changes in light conditions resulting from the time of day/year, weather conditions or viewer’s perspective.”
As well as the proposed towers, new public spaces are also part of the plans, which according to developers will create ‘a safer and more efficient pedestrian route into the city’.
A drop-in event for those interested in looking at the plans will happen on 4 December from 4pm to 7pm at 53Two, on Watson Street.
