Glenbrook seeks views on Birley Fields vision

The developer is hoping to submit a planning application for around 300 homes before the end of the year, having been selected as preferred bidder by landowner Manchester City Council in March.

Glenbrook has launched a public consultation on its plans for a 2.75-acre site off Greenheys Lane West and Old Birley Street in Hulme, which was once earmarked for an extension of UKFast’s headquarters.

The scheme, which is in the early stages of development, will be 100% affordable, providing homes for social rent, affordable or discounted rent, and shared ownership. The development would feature one-, two-, and three-bed apartments, maisonettes, and townhouses.

The first phase of consultation will run from 6 July to 28 July 2026, with in person drop-in sessions being held at Hulme Community Garden Centre, 28 Old Birley Street on Thursday 9 July from 4pm to 7pm and Wednesday 15 July from 2pm to 5pm.

Coda Studios is leading on design and Deloitte is advising on planning. LDA Design is the landscape architect. Republik of Ideas and RLB are advising on place strategy and social impact respectively.

Elsewhere, Glenbrook is also working up plans for the derelict Church Street car park site in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. 

Jamie Sutton, senior development manager at Glenbrook, said: “We are immensely proud to have been given the opportunity to provide nearly 300 new homes in the heart of Hulme and are looking forward to working extensively with the community through a robust engagement process.

“Our early-stage design intent focuses on the creation of a sustainable and inclusive neighbourhood that reflects Hulme’s diverse and rich heritage. Following the consultation, we will refine our proposals and intend to submit a planning application before the end of the year.”