Allies and Morrison's architectural design for Plot C, situated within Manchester's evolving Sister District, has successfully obtained planning approval from the Manchester City Council. This significant development comprises two large, interconnected commercial structures, totaling approximately 81,000 square meters, making it one of the city's largest new workplace-focused projects. The scheme is a cornerstone of the broader master plan for Manchester's emerging innovation campus, a joint venture between the University of Manchester and Bruntwood SciTech, and represents a crucial phase in the area's phased regeneration.
The approved plans detail a harmonious integration of commercial spaces with publicly accessible areas, including extensive landscaping and reconfigured public squares. A central tenet of the design is flexibility, aiming to accommodate a wide spectrum of enterprises from burgeoning start-ups to established large organizations. The interconnected nature of the two buildings facilitates adaptable floorplates and shared communal zones, fostering a dynamic environment that blends professional settings with inviting outdoor spaces.
While sharing a cohesive architectural language, the two buildings of Plot C are distinguished by their scale, massing, and material palettes. Building C1, the lower of the two, incorporates warmer red tones, thoughtfully selected to resonate with the existing brickwork of the surrounding Whitworth Street Conservation Area. In contrast, the taller C2 building presents a darker, charcoal-grey facade, accentuating its vertical presence. Together, these structures create a distinctive gateway to the Sister campus, establishing a recognizable architectural threshold while maintaining their individual identities within the larger urban fabric.
The meticulous planning of the public realm is a key feature of the approved scheme. Landscaped areas and pedestrian pathways are strategically designed to guide movement throughout the site, enhancing connectivity between the buildings and their immediate surroundings. The revitalized public square is envisioned as a vibrant hub, promoting permeability and providing opportunities for both daily activities and the integration of professional and social environments. Through this thoughtful amalgamation of architecture and landscape, Plot C is set to significantly contribute to the evolving spatial framework of the Sister District, laying the groundwork for subsequent development phases.
This landmark approval for Plot C underscores Manchester's ongoing commitment to fostering an innovative and dynamic urban environment. The project, with its blend of commercial functionality and accessible public spaces, is poised to become a vital component of the city's future growth, attracting diverse businesses and enriching the lives of its inhabitants.