MMU expands search for Oxford Road site team
Manchester Metropolitan University is looking to appoint a consultancy team to oversee the 96,000 sq ft redevelopment of the Mabel Tylecote building.
The prominent site within the university's All Saints Campus houses the Capitol Theatre and learning space for the Department of Languages and School of Theatre. The scheme would see the demolition of the existing building apart from the listed façade and portico, and the construction of new facilities behind it.
The scheme would include a tiered theatre with capacity for 230 people, a bar/café and display room, exhibition space for the university's special collections, drama and dance studios and administrative offices.
MMU launched its search for an architect for the project in August, although is yet to name a preferred practice. The consultancy team is to include project managers, structural engineers, and a specialist theatre advisor.
The demolition is to be done by a separate contractor. The estimated completion date is June 2018.
The building was originally opened by Manchester City Council in 1973 as an adult education college. It closed in 1991, and was taken over by MMU and named after Dame Mabel Tylecote, a Labour party politician and activist from Manchester.
MMU is currently undertaking a £250m investment programme in its estates across Manchester, which has seen the development of the Birley Fields campus and a start on site at a £65m business school on Oxford Road.
The deadline for receipt of tenders for the building consultancy role is 12 January 2015.
