Plans in for next phase of NOMA

The Co-operative Group has submitted a planning application for a 3.5-acre site as part of the next phase of development at its £800m NOMA site in Manchester.

The proposals, which were lodged by Deloitte Real Estate, on behalf of the Co-op, include external alterations to the listed New Century Hall and House, and conversion of the ground floor to create units for retail and restaurant uses. The plans also show the creation of a new public square and a pedestrian route between Miller Street and Balloon Street.

The new square is flanked by the New Century Hall and House, Old Bank, Holyoake and Redfern buildings and has been earmarked for events such as outdoor concerts and markets.

Listed building consent is also being sought for works on Redfern House and the CIS Tower.

Redfern Street and Mayes Street and part of Dantzic Street will be pedestrianised as part of the development.

The site, which is made up of a range of office buildings, has been largely vacant since the Co-op vacated New Century House last year when it moved into its new office at One Angel Square.

Demolition of a garage and annexe at the rear of New Century House began in February to make space for the proposed square. Construction of the scheme is partly funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

The NOMA masterplan covers a 20-acre site near Victoria Station.

David Pringle, director of NOMA, said: "The redevelopment and creation of a new city square around Mayes Street, Redfern Street, Dantzic Street and Hanover Street is key to our place making aspirations, as the square becomes the centre point and soul of NOMA.

"Support from the City Council and European Regional Development Fund are integral to the project's success, which is in turn complemented by the great strides being made in developing the City's transport infrastructure including the second city tram crossing and the redevelopment of Victoria Station.

"The second public square will create a focal point, bringing brands, eateries and events to NOMA that will in turn help to generate a real buzz at the heart of this evolving neighbourhood. We are really excited by this next phase of the scheme and look forward to sharing detailed design plans in the coming months."

In the planning statement, Deloitte said: "This level of investment in public realm will create the conditions that will attract occupiers to the NOMA estate and therefore private sector investment into revitalising the listed estate.

"This is something that will create many multiples of new employment opportunities and wider economic benefits to the local economy."

Planit IE designed the public realm aspect of the scheme.