Urban & Civic confirms Howells for Renaissance Hotel site
Urban & Civic has confirmed the appointment of Glenn Howells Architects to work up plans for the site of the Renaissance Hotel at the north end of Deansgate in Manchester.
Glenn Howells is understood to have beaten rival bidders SimpsonHaugh and Eric Parry in a design competition that was launched late last year.
The architect will now draw up plans for the project, which Urban & Civic property director Philip Leech said would be “likely to include a new 5-star hotel, residential, retail and leisure”, as well as new public realm.
A planning application for the development is expected to be submitted next year.
The developer acquired the two-acre site in 2014, and Place North West first revealed Glenn Howells’ appointment to the project in August this year.
Glenn Howells, director at Glenn Howells Architects said: “Our vision for the site is a composition of new buildings taking reference from the surrounding heritage, whilst framing key views of the Cathedral and bringing new life to this part of the river.”
Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, added: “The site brings excitement and challenge in equal measure, but the outcome will revitalise the area and be a tremendous boost to the medieval core of the city.
“We absolutely welcome the commitment of Urban & Civic to ensure the development goes ahead and believe in the huge potential of the site.”
No Offfices?!
By Mike
Sooner the better…this has to be one of the worst buildings in central Manchester.
By Coolmanc
gutted… premier house is a fine architectural example, could they not do a refurb?
By Alan
I love the building but to the average person on the street it is an eyesore.. Maybe once it’s gone people will look back at it with fondness, like the Maths tower Manchester has some of the finest examples of this era but unfortunately is not appreciated
By Welshie
Bring it on…!! How anyone thought such lack of street interaction on Deansgate was ever acceptable, back in the day…?!! Harvey Nicks is, all the same, pretty much showing its backside to us over the road..The CARPARK entrance looks like a big BLACK hole….Am looking forward to a quality build to be proud off on the OTHER side…..
By Schwyz
This building is a monstrosity, not a fine example of its period at all. It’s so dominant yet so uninviting at the same time. Not to mention the state of disrepair it’s fallen into, this building has reached the end of its life.
By Soya
good appointment
By D Duval
a cut and carve refurb would be good as there is some architectural merit.
should be ready to start on site just in time for the start of the next cycle!
By D Duval
a bruntwood internal refurb here would be the best option. The long skateboard ramp looks brilliant.
By Alan