CERT seeks views on 115,000 sq ft college-to-hotel conversion
Manchester’s Shena Simon Campus is to be redeveloped into a 167-bed venue named for its owner, MyProtein founder Oliver Cookson.
Having announced in September that The Oliver would sit within Hilton’s Curio Collection, the redevelopment proposals will now be the subject of a public consultation, prior to a planning application being submitted.
Developer CERT Property is inviting feedback on the £60m plan, which will see the grade two-listed Chorlton Street asset repurposed.
Designed by EPR Architects, the scheme will aim for “an open-doors feel”, according to the consultation website. It will feature a 200-capacity events space, restaurant and bar overlooking Sackville Gardens, and a gym and wellness centre.
- The consultation runs until 14 October. View the plans.
Stephen Oster, head of acquisitions and development at CERT, said: “Working with Oliver Cookson’s family office and the wider project team, we have developed proposals that seek to respect the character of the existing building while creating a high-quality hotel destination that responds to Manchester’s continued growth as a major visitor, business and leisure destination.
“The consultation provides an opportunity for local people, businesses and stakeholders to understand our plans and contribute their feedback before a planning application is submitted.”
The project team for The Oliver comprises EPR Architects, planner Enabl, interior designer Incognito, Layer Studio on landscapes, and Civic Engineers on structure.
OFR, Marketaylor, and Levrant are also instructed on the scheme.
Apart from a brief stint as a military hospital during World War One, the grade two-listed Shena Simon campus has always been used for education.
Oliver Cookson acquired the asset in 2025.
