The developers behind the Albert Bridge House scheme have submitted new proposals with new tower layouts and an 128% increase in the number of homes
The updated plans for the Albert Bridge House scheme include two octagonal residential towers at heights of 49 and 37 storeys, as well as an 18-storey commercial office block, in response to the “the financial landscape” shifting “significantly”.
Oval Real Estate said that the new proposals “have been developed in response to this challenge and to better align with current market needs and community priorities.”
The scheme has been massively reoriented around BTR housing
The original plans, approved in 2023, were drawn up by architect Studio Egret West and projected over 1 million sq ft of commercial space with 350 build-to-rent homes on the 1.2 hectare site.
The Albert Bridge site includes the adjacent eponymous gardens and bridge over the River Irwell, a vacant 1950s 18-storey office building formerly occupied by HMRC and a surface-level car park.
The commercial space has now been pared back to a quarter of the original spec, at 250,000 sq ft.
The new tower layouts allow for better ventilation and dual-flats with city and river views. The lower office building has also been optimised to meet net zero carbon standards with thermally responsive facades and smart climate systems.
New public realm on the site includes an expanded riverside walk, new play areas and an “urban arboretum” incorporating existing mature trees on the plot whilst also adding additional native and non native trees.
Meeting Manchester’s net zero targets
Studio Egret West described the changes as:”…a thoughtful evolution of the previously consented 2023 scheme for the site. Whilst the earlier design featured a single residential tower and an expansive commercial office block, changing economic conditions have necessitated a rethinking of its scale and delivery strategy.
“The refreshed scheme is a balanced composition of three buildings: Two octagonal residential towers: 49 and 37 storeys with dual-aspect apartments, improved daylighting, ventilation, and views; and an 18 storey commercial building that prioritises flexibility and future proofing, in line with Manchester’s target to be Net Zero Carbon by 2038.”
Others working on the scheme include planning consultant Deloitte, QS Cumming Group, structural and civil engineer AKT II and M&E engineer Hoare Lea.
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