Manchester City Centre Workers Could Benefit from Affordable Flats in UK-First

Strategic Insights -

Manchester city centre workers in the retail and hospitality sectors could gain access to cheaper flats in a new development, following a government grant to make 20% of the 175 apartments affordable. This is a UK-first proposal, with discussions ongoing to secure a Homes England grant to fund the affordable housing. The development, which includes four skyscrapers around Mayfield Park, has been approved by Manchester city council. If successful, this would be the first place in the UK to prioritize affordable housing for service industry staff.

Key Takeaways:

  • 175 apartments out of 879 approved by Manchester city council will be made affordable, representing 20% of the total.
  • The development, led by Landsec, includes four skyscrapers - two 23 storeys tall and two 28 storeys tall - around Mayfield Park.
  • Discussions are ongoing to secure a Homes England grant to cover building costs, allowing developers to still turn a profit.
  • The affordable apartments would be targeted directly at workers in the hospitality and retail sectors.
  • This would be the first UK place to prioritize affordable housing for service industry staff, according to Labour councillor Sam Wheeler.
  • Landsec has contributed to Manchester city council's "housing affordability fund" to fund affordable homes in other areas.
  • The new development will also include new office blocks, restaurants, cafes, health and wellness facilities, and community areas.
  • The apartment blocks are expected to feature prioritized sunlight protection in Mayfield Park, which will be 40% larger.

Statistics:

  • 20% of 175 apartments will be made affordable, totaling 35 apartments.
  • 879 apartments have been approved by Manchester city council.
  • 175 affordable apartments would represent a fifth of the total approved apartments.
  • 40% increase in Mayfield Park size due to the development.
  • Two 23 storey units and two 28 storey units will be constructed.

Sources:

  • "Manchester city centre retail and hospitality workers could benefit from cheaper flats in a UK-first after hundreds of apartments were approved." - ETHAN DAVIES Local Democracy Reporting Service.