Three architects compete for MCR site destroyed by fire
MCR Property Group has short-listed three architects to design a replacement for its Dale Street, Manchester building destroyed by fire in April.
Hodder Associates, Reid Architects and Glenn Howells Architects will submit designs for a residential building on the site. The original building was 25,000 sq ft over six floors and was being renovated into offices when the fire occurred.
MCR, which owns a number of other buildings in the Piccadilly area, acquired the Grade II-listed building last year. Insurers reportedly valued the destroyed project at around £30m.
The winning design is expected to be announced at the end of October. Andy Phillips, of MCR Property, said: "This is an extremely important site for us and for Piccadilly – an area that is currently experiencing a great deal of regeneration and investment – and we are anxious to ensure that the new scheme complements the surrounding architecture.
Phillips continues: "We have liaised closely with Manchester City Council to decide on the best course of action for the redevelopment of the site, which we agreed would now be suited to residential. All three architect practices have excellent reputations and have previously designed buildings within Manchester city centre. We are very excited about this new challenge and look forward to seeing the final proposals."
