Co-op HQ consultation closes with council backing

The Co-operative Group's vision to transform 20 acres of Manchester city centre has been formally endorsed by Manchester City Council.

Public consultation on the master plan for the area of the Northern Quarter owned by the Co-op closed this week. The first planning application – a detailed one for the new headquarters for Co-op – is due to be submitted before the end of July.

The wider scheme encompasses office, residential and commercial development with the potential to accommodate up to 15,000 jobs, an integrated energy system aiming to provide 100% of development's heat and power needs from renewable sources, 4.5 acres of public open space, emphasis on green transport with the aim of making cycling, walking and public transport the preferred options, and a sustainable drainage system ensuring water is stored and recycled as needed.

Peter Marks, group chief executive of the Co-operative Group, said: "Working in partnership with Manchester City Council, we can transform this important area into a new and instantly recognisable quarter that will attract new business, retail and residential users as well as greatly enhancing the public space which leads into the city centre."

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: "This site is a key piece in the jigsaw of our plans for the northern part of the city centre. It will act as a catalyst for further investment over the next decade."