NWDA brings Ancoats problem sites to market
Lambert Smith Hampton is to invite developers and occupiers to take on various publicly owned vacant properties in the Ancoats area of central Manchester in a bid to boost economic activity.
The properties up for grabs – valued at £8m as a whole – include 46 Radium Street, 27 Blossom Street, 2-6 Loom Street and Jactin House. LSH will also look to sell cleared sites for redevelopment.
The NWDA acquired numerous properties in the area through Compulsory Purchase Order in 2002.
Lambert Smith Hampton will work with the NWDA and urban regeneration company New East Manchester to market the vacant land and property.
Paul Lakin, director of land and property at the NWDA, said: "Ancoats is a priority for the NWDA, we have already invested £71m and the private sector has committed £220m so far.
"During the economic downturn it is vital for us to maintain momentum in Ancoats and LSH will work to attract high quality developments and private sector investment.
Peter Skelton, head of LSH Manchester, said: "We are optimistic about the future prospects for the area. Ancoats is ripe for investment and, with a pro-active disposal strategy and careful exploration of emerging opportunities we believe we can assist in improving the overall performance and appeal of the area."
The NWDA this year completed a new public space, Cutting Room Square, and has cleared seven derelict sites, spruced up with green slate chippings. New fencing has been erected as well as hoardings bearing messages directly supplied by local Ancoats businesses. A new CCTV scheme will be installed later this year and a Business Watch scheme has been established in partnership with Greater Manchester Police.
Flint Glass Wharf, a development overlooking the Rochdale Canal consisting of 136 apartments and penthouses with some commercial/retail units, was completed in August. And at George Leigh Street, Jersey Street and Radium Street the tarmac footpaths and roadways are being replaced with Granite sets and York stone flags. This will be completed by Christmas.
