ANCOATS URBAN VILLAGE!(a comprehensive guide!) [Archive]

SleepyOne

July 28th, 2005, 02:26 AM

Some of the largest current projects underway or proposed within Ancoats Urban Village:

Royal Mills (Under Construction)
A titanic development comprising refurbishment and new build to provide over 300 apartments, retail and substantial new commercial space.

http://www.knightfrank.com/propertyImages/mrd040005_05.jpghttp://www.knightfrank.com/propertyImages/mrd040006_08.jpg
http://www.knightfrank.com/propertyImages/mrd040001_08.jpghttp://www.knightfrank.com/propertyImages/mrd040007_07.jpg

http://ancoatsvr.auvc.co.uk/systemfiles/buildings/168_pb04_0/image_view02.jpghttp://ancoatsvr.auvc.co.uk/systemfiles/buildings/167_pb04_00/image_view05.jpghttp://ancoatsvr.auvc.co.uk/systemfiles/buildings/168_pb06_00/image_view01.jpg

Great Ancoats St Development (Approved - due on site later this year subject to resolution of legal and CPO issues)

http://tinypic.com/9ihhjk.jpg

Express Networks Phase 3 (Approved)
A mixed use office / retail building fronting Oldham Road to the rear of the famous Express Building on Great Ancoats Street, below.

http://ancoatsvr.auvc.co.uk/systemfiles/buildings/157_lb04_00/image_a001_lb04.JPG

Public Realm (Ongoing)
An ambitious programme of works to transform the streets, paths and spaces of Ancoats has begun.

The works are part of the Ancoats Public Realm Strategy the main objectives of which are:

- universal pedestrian priority
- 20mph speed designation
- traffic design achieved through highway layout rather than traditional humps/chicanes
- 2-way traffic almost throughout
- extensive and controlled on-street parking
- reduction of visual clutter, traffic signage and lining.

The first phase of work is centred around the recently completely MM2 development and includes open space by the Rochdale Canal. High quality and robust materials are being used including york stone flags and granite setts. Future phases will include all the remaining streets and spaces in the village.

Bengal Street Development (Approved, due to start late '05)
Planning permission has been granted for a mixed use scheme on Bengal Street, next to the former George Leigh Street school.

The eight storey building will be finished in white render and has a cut away in the centre allowing through views to the adjacent former school as well as producing interesting light/shade changes throughout the day. When completed the scheme, designed by architects MBLC, will offer 48 apartments, 1100 sq m of commercial space as well as 27 car spaces. It is hoped work will begin on the development in late 2005.

http://ancoatsvr.auvc.co.uk/systemfiles/features/48/image_Day41bengalweb.jpg

Murray's Mills (Proposed)
Developer for Murrays' Mills chosen
A joint partnership between Inpartnership and The Burrell Company have been chosen to redevlop the historic mill complex.

The mill buildings are currently undergoing an comprehensive repair by Ancoats Buildings Preservation Trust. Although the exact nature of the end use is not fully determined yet the plans envisage a mixture of uses potentially including residential properties, commercial space, a hotel and a textile resource centre.

http://ancoatsvr.auvc.co.uk/systemfiles/features/46/image_Inpartnership2web.jpg

highriser

July 28th, 2005, 02:32 AM

Craig

August 2nd, 2005, 05:02 PM

While i was around here today, i was looking for where that warehouse fire was last week,, if it was where i think it was (demolished and cleared site),,it is a huge site next to where all this is going on, greatpotential to extend things,,,Craigo do you know whats going to happen with this site ?

Yes there is a developer looking at it at the moment - the design's not quite there yet but should be ready to submit for planning in October. This site is next to MBLC's fine white new build and the former school on the next block down is to be refurbished for commercial space and so part of Bengal St will be transformed over the next 2/3 years.

highriser

August 2nd, 2005, 05:27 PM

Sir Miles Platting

August 2nd, 2005, 05:58 PM

It might be me being cynical,,,but over that last few years,esp since the Commonwealth Games,there as been quite a few mysterious fires, that have caused shitty old building to be demolished around the city centre,and surprise surprise, a developer is interested in the site,,,im not compaining it it finally get something done,instead of derelict buildings being left to rot for years on end....
They used to have a name in Manchester for 'mysterious' fires. Especially involving old textile mills and night-clubs in the city centre. It was jokingly referred to as Jewish Lightning but I'm not sure it's 'correct' to say that anymore. Oops :)

Northbeach

August 2nd, 2005, 08:48 PM

I know someone who get's pissed on that at bar mitzvah's.

Craig

August 3rd, 2005, 10:55 AM

It might be me being cynical,,,but over that last few years,esp since the Commonwealth Games,there as been quite a few mysterious fires, that have caused shitty old building to be demolished around the city centre,and surprise surprise, a developer is interested in the site,,,im not compaining it it finally get something done,instead of derelict buildings being left to rot for years on end....

You're right in that there have been dodgy fires in the past. There is a well known Ancoats arsenist who is now back out of prison so that may explain things. However the developer for this site is a well respected local one and were gutted that this happened as they knew people would put 2 and 2 together and get 5. Anyway they would have obtained permission to drop this so why jeopardise your reputation by hiring someone to torch it?

highriser

August 4th, 2005, 04:33 PM

just drove down Gt Ancoats St,and the site where the BSC tower is going is being demolished,,

Diggler

August 4th, 2005, 07:50 PM

Don't think this website has been posted before?

Chips for sale (http://www.chipsforsale.co.uk/)

caw123

August 4th, 2005, 08:15 PM

It has.

highriser

August 5th, 2005, 04:30 PM

The site where the BSC, Gt Ancoats St tower going ,,,thought it was on fire today,shouldnt be long till this has gone

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/mancpicaug010.jpg

jrb

August 5th, 2005, 04:42 PM

Keep the pics coming Highriser!

The site to the left of the works, think it used to be a car rental place, grey wall and grey metal bar and post is up for sale! Sign says available for redevelopment!

highriser

August 5th, 2005, 04:47 PM

I'll do me best matey,,,im in between jobs at the moment so im in the city centre most days job hunting,,GIZZA JOB :)

Diggler

August 7th, 2005, 01:56 AM

The site where the BSC, Gt Ancoats St tower going ,,,thought it was on fire today,shouldnt be long till this has gone

Are they knocking down what used to be "Barons" shop? Is an eyesore of a building.

But still have a fond memory of it, that was where my parents bought my first computer when I was 11 ... a Commodore Vic 20. State of the art....! :eek2:

highriser

August 7th, 2005, 05:59 PM

The new IVLA store,,with the Piccadilly cranes behind it

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/manchesteraug7007.jpg

Craig

August 8th, 2005, 12:50 PM

Are they knocking down what used to be "Barons" shop? Is an eyesore of a building.

That is correct.

Diggler

August 8th, 2005, 07:11 PM

That is correct.

Great news!

highriser

August 9th, 2005, 08:19 PM

A new render of the BSC , Gt Ancoats tower,,on the hoardings around that site

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/manchesterpics9aug001.jpg

jrb

August 9th, 2005, 08:43 PM

Couple of renderings of Murrays Mills!

http://www.ancoatsbpt.co.uk/images/Journal12.pdf

Accura4Matalan

August 9th, 2005, 08:47 PM

Good to see the Gt Ancoats St tower finally underway. Seems to have taken forever.

SleepyOne

August 9th, 2005, 10:45 PM

Craig

August 10th, 2005, 02:55 PM

Thanks a lot for that picture highriser (the view from Newton Street?). This development should be quite special once complete. Looks a really high quality building and I like how its smooth curves echoes those of the neighbouring Daily Express building.

The architects are Lifschutz Davidson (http://www.lifschutzdavidson.com) who did the interior design for the Harvey Nichols restaurant.

Great to see this start and adding more 'critical mass' to Great Ancoats St.

Here's the original render looking along Great Ancoats Street.

http://tinypic.com/9ihhjk.jpg

The view is up Newton Street. The original design is by Lifshutz Davidson in fact it was effectively the last building Ian Davidson designed before he tragically and unexpectedly died some two years ago. Arca are now working on the project and I hope they don't dilute the original too much.

For interest although the hoarding doesn't say so there will be some four bedroom apartments also.

SleepyOne

August 10th, 2005, 08:14 PM

The [new] view is up Newton Street. The original design is by Lifshutz Davidson in fact it was effectively the last building Ian Davidson designed before he tragically and unexpectedly died some two years ago. Arca are now working on the project and I hope they don't dilute the original too much.

For interest although the hoarding doesn't say so there will be some four bedroom apartments also.

You say Arca are now working on the project? The same architects BSC Group employed for their Greengate site which produced the monsterous Canopus tower? Im slightly worried now. I wonder if Arca are also being employed to work on Stephenson Bell's superb Dale St tower (aka Sarah Tower) another of BSC's projects.

frozenmusic

August 10th, 2005, 08:21 PM

Indeed, I wouldn't trust the Arca/BSC combination to come up with a coherent sentence, let alone a building. It’s weird to think that buildings by these people are actually on site – make me very worried that Canopus could happen.

Craig

August 11th, 2005, 11:54 AM

I actually think Arca are a good practice and BSC have agreed to keep pretty true to the LD design. The problem with one practice taking on a scheme from another one is that inevitably professional pride comes in and they want to 'improve' on the original.

highriser

August 11th, 2005, 08:34 PM

from the Kings sturge website

Manchester’s Residential team has been instructed by developers, BSC Group, on the £27 million scheme in Ancoats, just outside the City Centre.

Demolition is already in progress and the new Ancoats Sarah Village is to be completed by the end of 2007. The development and construction of this landmark scheme has two buildings, 139 residential units, retail and leisure facilities and mixed use businesses.

There will be one, two, three and four bedroom apartments, located on Great Ancoats Street (sometimes referred to as “the World’s first industrial suburb”) at the top of Newton Street with 94 car parking spaces.

In approximately three to four weeks, release of 30 two bedroom units (without parking) will be available to the investment market from £144,000 to £166,500.

The development of Ancoats began in the late 1700s, and peaked during the Industrial Revolution, but it saw its fair share of casualties during the two World Wars and there was further decline in the 1960s with the mass clearance of the area's terraced homes, the population was re-housed in the north and east of the city. The mills, attracting decreasing rents, fell into disrepair.

Newspaper printing, one of Ancoats' 20th Century industries, fell victim to changes in technology, with the Daily Express ceasing to be published from its famous black glass building in 1989. The closure of the Express Printers was also the start of Ancoats' renewal, and part of it now is a designated Conservation Area.

Jongeman

August 11th, 2005, 09:20 PM

Craig

August 12th, 2005, 10:31 AM

I've only just discovered this building (BSC Gt Ancoats Tower), and only recently found this forum! This has to be one of the best looking buildings I've seen so far, I love it. It complements the Express Building beautifully IMO.......cool

Gt Ancoats St is one of the few M/cr thoroughfares that has the potential to be a (kind of) true European boulevard. It needs wider pavements, with trees down it etc. Only problem is the volume of IRR traffic though.

My first post, hope I've done it right.

Welcome Jongeman you have certainly done it right. I agree with your point about the potential for Great Ancoats Street. The problem is that the City Council need to change how they view it. As the street is part of Mcr's inner ring road its seen as primarily a means of moving vehicles around the city centre.

Jongeman

August 12th, 2005, 11:15 PM

Cheers Craig

As part of the IRR, there's no real alternative for Gt Ancoats St. However, roads in Paris for example take murderous amounts of traffic too. It'd help if they did what London did (I think) and ban artics and dumpers from central Manchester roads.

Certainly improve the environment and the feel of the place.

dgnr8

August 13th, 2005, 12:15 AM

I see what you mean with the European boulebard thing. On my school trip to Paris, our coach decided to go through the red light district with all the hookers and strip clubs. Needless to say, this was greeted with great joy amongst the 15/16 year old school kids. But the road was lovely, a central reservation not dissimilar from Ancoats. With the right care and attention, we could do the same thing with Ancoats, if Central Retail Park dissapeared. One thing Leeds is lucky to have is the Headrow. You only get a good feeling for about half the distance of the short road, but it's very similar to these "European boulevards" you speak of and it's something that would be really decent in Manc.

caw123

August 13th, 2005, 12:29 AM

Oh aye.

I walked down some massive avenues in the 'Clichy' area of Paris. Lovely big trees, nice central reservation you can walk down. Just ignore the sex clubs and the passed out bums and you have a fantastic ambience.

Jongeman

August 13th, 2005, 03:59 PM

Gt Ancoats St is also in the perfect place to be a service centre and suburb within the city, if you know what I mean. On one side, Northern Quarter residents, on the other Ancoats/Little Italy, New Islington etc. It's already developing a really interesting mix of residential and commercial properties.

Add the boulevard thing with trees, a Tesco metro, a small Halifax branch etc, a few bars, a florist and it could be really cool, in a very urban sort of a way. Also, I don't think that heavy traffic always has to detract from an area. It can make a place feel alive.

Central Park should be relocated - there's an enormous brownfield site between Ashton Old Rd and Hyde Rd (around Ardwick Station). How good would a park be here? Framed by mills on redhill st, new islington and the converted vulcan works on pollard st.

SleepyOne

August 17th, 2005, 11:14 PM

You're dead right. Grt Ancoats Street has such great potential. Why oh why can our wonderous city council not see it?

Extending the blight of the central retail park across the road into Piccadilly Basin is simply unforgivable. On a prime spot next to the canal too! Utter stupidity.

Lets put these bad thought away for a second. Here's an interesting article on some of the recent progress at Ancoats including a mention of that mill that was destroyed by fire recently. Looks like its destined for a Leach Rhodes Walker designed scheme which Im looking forward to seeing. They have a massive portfolio going back years and are behind buildings such as Jefferson Place at Green Quarter and Liverpool's new Malmaison for example.

Also nice to see MBLC one of my favourite Manchester archietcts has such a heavy presence in the AUV.

Pace of development heats up in Ancoats
September 2005

The huge blaze at the heart of Ancoats last month has, if anything, accelerated the pace of change in the area rather than slowed it down. Although it took 60 firefighters the whole of the night of 13 July 2005 to put out the blaze at the five-storey mill on Bengal Street, they managed to prevent it spreading to the adjacent Beehive Mill, in which the legendary club Sankeys Soap is located. Although 47 Bengal Street was Grade B listed, according to Stefan Brzozowski, development manager at Ancoats Urban Village, it was actually planned for demolition.

“We did originally come forward for schemes for re-using the mill, but structural surveys put the kibosh on it. The development company Nikal Investments sent their engineers round and they returned to say that the place was too far gone. Obviously we couldn’t go on their diagnosis so we contacted English Heritage and they sent their engineers. Although their report didn’t concur – they aren’t going to advocate demolition – the subtext was the same. The subsequent interventions that would have been required were such as to make it impossible for the place to stack up as a development,” he said.

Leach Rhodes Walker are now looking at a new build scheme for the site, on behalf of Nikal Investments. In the same block, Richard Murphy Architects have just put in for planning permission and listed building consent for the first of three phases for the Burrell Company’s Murray Mills block. “We’ve put in a detailed request for the first residential phase of 112 residential units, which also includes some office space and live work space in the basement and ground floors. We’ve also provided a masterplan. At one end of this residential block, we have plans for a textile research centre and a new build hotel at the other,” said Matt Brennan, of Richard Murphy Architects.

In a joint venture with developers City Park South, the architectural firm MBLC have purchased land on the site to the immediate south of the blaze and have plans for a new office on the basement with parking on the ground floor. The new build (shown below) is on a sliver of land 11m x 60m and will also include 48 residential units. According to George Mills, partner at MBLC, a major factor in relocating to the area was the further development. “We were responsible for the early masterplanning in Hulme and located there at the same time. If you are adjacent, you develop links with other agencies. We’ve been involved in 18 projects in the area, because we were there from its early days,” said Mills.

“On Ancoats there are now 192 apartments that are now occupied. There’s 580 under construction and 450 that are approved or committed to,” said Brzozowski.

highriser

August 17th, 2005, 11:24 PM

very interesting article there Sleepy,a friend of mine as just bought a apartment in Ovale, im going for a nosey next week

SleepyOne

August 17th, 2005, 11:46 PM

Low and behold, Richard Murphy Architects' website contains a wealth of information on their proposals for hte Murray's Mills complex (not to be confused with the equally significant Royal Mills complex, itself currently subject to a £65m regeneration scheme).

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/Projects/394/images/394-300-aerial%20view.jpg

Murrays Mills, Ancoats Urban Village - Manchester

This complex of buildings arranged in a quadrangle was built between the years 1798 and 1806 in Ancoats, an historic industrial suburb of Manchester. It currently consists of the Old/Decker Mill and the New Mill with their associated Engine Houses and the former administration building on Murray Street.

Ancoats Buildings Preservation Trust were the client for the shell-repair and conservation works began on site in September 2004. Our client, The Burrell Company / Inpartnership Ltd., has commissioned us to design proposals for the development of these important buildings.

Our scheme, which was identified as the preferred development scheme (won in competition in September 2004) proposes a mixed use for the site consisting 112 apartments and 1700m2 of office space within the mill buildings and engine houses; a Textile Resource Centre / Fashion Centre of Excellence within the Murray Street building; and a 60-bedroom new-build 'boutique' hotel on the currently vacant eastern side of the quad. The proposal will also reinstate the canal basin at the centre of the quad.

The architectural vision for the re-inhabitation of Murray's Mills is to create an enclosed central space, and to make new architecture which clearly differentiates between the restored historic buildings and new insertions. Externally, the new elements consist of corten-steel staircase/lift towers to the Old Mill and the Old Mill Engine House (echoing the form of the existing staircase); new external staircases to the first floor flats in the New Mill; and a glazed lift to one side of the Old Mill's existing brick staircase. The rebuilding of the top two stories of the Murray Street building would clearly present the contemporary exterior of the versatile new internal space of the Fashion Centre of Excellence.

Each mill has been developed with very differing residential strategies, neither utilizing the usual repetitive internal corridor solution with its inevitable single aspect flats. Instead, we wanted to consider alternative options to establish through-aspect flats so that the width and structural rhythm of the original warehouse could be appreciated.

New Mill: Taking our inspiration from the famous Unite d'Habitation in Marseilles by Le Corbusier, the top three floors have been provided with a central corridor down the middle (third) floor, the corridor giving access to a of a variety of flats on all three levels. The corridor itself is accessed using the existing Mill staircase and new liftshaft. This strategy has the advantage of ensuring the maximum number of possible through-aspect flats and therefore allowing a better reading of the original scale and structural rhythm of the building from within.

Old Mill: The strategy has been to externalise the circulation using three cores, one being the existing staircase and the other two being new corten-steel staircases and glazed lift towers. This approach allows us to make the incisions required for apartment access in a forensic manner, i.e. in lieu of new lift and stair cores within the historic structure. The flats have been planned so as to provide as many as possible through-aspect and, in a number of cases, through-space layouts which would give views of both the courtyard and the canal from the main living spaces.

Planning & Listed Building Consent Applications will be submitted in the Summer of 2005 with an expected site start for the development of the apartments and offices in the Summer of 2006.

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/Projects/394/images/394-302-view%20over%20water.jpg

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/Projects/394/images/394-303-view%20over%20water.jpg

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/Projects/394/images/394-304-view%20from%20terrace.jpg

What an excellent scheme this promises to be! I love the reinstated canal basin in the courtyard of the development.

frozenmusic

August 18th, 2005, 01:47 AM

Wow, Murrays Mills looks very, very nice.

just spotted this on Pollard street in Ancoats, can't remember if i've seen it here or not
http://media.rightmove.co.uk/18k/17783/17783_SOC1_IMG_01.png

Craig

August 18th, 2005, 11:30 AM

Extending the blight of the central retail park across the road into Piccadilly Basin is simply unforgivable. On a prime spot next to the canal too! Utter stupidity.

Spot on Sleepyone - talk about storing up problems for the future.

By the way where is the article on AUV from?

markydeedrop

August 18th, 2005, 06:18 PM

I've managed to find this article today, but not the images mentioned:

Artisan Ship Canal Developments has released images of the next phase of its £100m Lower Eastside Valley scheme in Ancoats, Manchester.

Phases two and three of the development, on which construction began this week, include 242 apartments, 90% of which have been sold off-plan.

The scheme, on a 6.7-acre site, is part of the New East Manchester regeneration zone, which is supported by Manchester city council.

The development involves an extension to the existing Ashton canal to provide a waterside frontage.
It was designed by Artisan's in-house architecture team, Arconia.

The current phases are due to be complete by 2007 and are marketed by the in-house Artisan Property Warehouse.

Artisan Ship Canal Developments is a joint venture between Peel Holdings and Carol Ainscow's Artisan.

EarlyBird

August 20th, 2005, 05:30 PM

A few piccies from Royal Mills today...

This guy was hanging onto the bars like a prisoner until I pulled the camera out and he hurriedly started acting busy...
http://eb.cx/q2/2005-08-20/royal-mills.jpg

This place is huge, but they really need to sort out the awful sheds next door
http://eb.cx/q2/2005-08-20/royal-mills2.jpg

The crane swung right over my head and scared the crap out of me with the rattling from the chain
http://eb.cx/q2/2005-08-20/royal-crane.jpg

vertigosufferer

August 20th, 2005, 06:04 PM

Great pics again, EB. Tell you what, I wouldn't mind one of those apartments when they get refurbished. Great Ancoats could become a very desireable place to live. :)

jrb

August 22nd, 2005, 05:44 PM

Taken yesterday!

Ancoats, New Islington, Looking from Ancoats towards the City Centre, Ovale!

Lots of work still to be done!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture019.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture020.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture021.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture018.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture017.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture023.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture022.jpg

Mad! :crazy: Love them Street lamps! :) News Islington! Can't wait for this Rocky Horror Show area to be completed!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture026.jpg

Farsight

August 22nd, 2005, 06:47 PM

Mez

August 22nd, 2005, 06:53 PM

Is anything specifically planned for the site on JRB's third pic?

ps, thanks for the pics jrb.

Craig

August 23rd, 2005, 02:57 PM

I do hope Ancoats turns out looking good in the end, but I'm a little concerned it won't. Are those lamp posts waiting to be painted? Or are they supposed to have the rustbelt look? Whilst I'm normally keen on refurbs, I do think some of these old mills are irredeemable and need to go. I can't understand why they're so valued by the likes of English Heritage, and I can quite understand if they er, accidentally burn down.

The lamp posts are meant to be rusty - its Core 10 as in Angel of the North, B of the Bang and Gormley's other sculptures on Crosby sands.

As far as the mills go EH wouldn't be doing their job if they were in favour of letting our old cotton mills be dropped. In fact the overwhelming opinion from most people is for retention. Some of the mill buildings are pretty basic and some are listed not because of architectural quality but because of historical significance (although parts of Royal Mills for instance are quite ornate. Manchester became wealthy and grew because of the cotton industry and if we've got anytrhing to brag about its the fact that it was the world's first modern industrial city. I don't think its unreasonbale to retain and refurbish some of the mills (don't forget hundreds have been lost and qiuite right too) as part of a vibrant new part of the city and with good quality new build in amongst the older buildings. Its about being comfortable and proud of our past but not turning the city into a museum/industrial age theme park.

Jongeman

August 23rd, 2005, 04:03 PM

Craig...

My thoughts exactly. Some of those mills can be said to be amongst the world's very first industrial buildings.

I don't think what happened in Ancoats is fully appreciated now, but it will be in 50 or 100 years time, especially if World Heritage Status is achieved. Before these mills, there was no modern world, as we know it.

SleepyOne

August 24th, 2005, 01:47 AM

Spot on Sleepyone - talk about storing up problems for the future.

By the way where is the article on AUV from?

Apologies. The article came from September's edition of Prospect Magazine (http://www.prospectmagazine.com/).

highriser

September 1st, 2005, 06:18 PM

Trying to find out what the new crane was for near Ovale, i found this article that explains it all...:)

Artisan Ship Canal Developments bucks trend with residential boom at New East Manchester Gateway scheme

16/8/2005

Work has started on the next two phases of the £100m Lower Eastside Valley, Ancoats - the gateway sustainable development to the New East Manchester Regeneration Zone.

Phase two and three of Lower Eastside Valley in Ancoats will comprise of 242 apartments across five storeys, of which more than 90% has already been sold off plan – the rest have deposits placed on them. Strong early interest in the development runs counter to talk of a residential lull in Manchester’s city centre demand.

The 6.7 acre (2.71 hectares) site on Every Street is being developed by Artisan Ship Canal Developments - a joint venture between developers Artisan Holdings, Peel Holdings and Manchester City Council.

Phases two and three, designed by Artisan’s in-house architecture team Arconia, will also include 148 car parking spaces (most of which will be underground) set in designed public area and will see the ship canal corridor being regenerated and extended into a central feature.

Planning permission was granted for phases two and three of the seven phased development at the end of 2004 and will be the construction will be complete in spring 2007.

Carol Ainscow, chairman of Artisan Holdings, comments: “I am delighted to say there is a continuing demand for Artisan apartments. Such a large percentage sold off plan speaks for itself, and shows that investment in the city centre residential market is still buoyant.”

“Ancoats is a great place to live and the development has been designed to provide a community feel with attractive public areas and plenty of green space. Eastside proves that market is there but the product must be right.”

James Whittaker, development manager at Peel Holdings, said: “To have sold more than 90% of the apartments before even starting on site is testament to the high standard of this development. New East Manchester has become a credible and desirable location for City Centre living.”

Phase one has been designed by Aedas Architects and consists of 143 residential apartments with underground parking for 89 cars and is due to be complete in 2006.

SleepyOne

September 9th, 2005, 08:45 PM

A bigger picture of the new 'Ovale' apartment block in Ancoats.

http://www.bdonline.co.uk/Pictures/web/l/o/u/AlbionExternal_big.jpg

A new apartment block designed by Manchester practice Andrew Wallace Architects is under construction in the Ancoats area of Manchester. The seven-storey, £5 million circular housing scheme overlooks the New Islington development in east Manchester

By Will Hurst

The striking building, called Albion Works, includes 36 apartments and is clad in coloured glass panels. It also features a large elliptical atrium in the centre of the building.

The atrium is used for access and also helps to naturally ventilate the apartments.

The space also features a glass-clad, freestanding lift in the centre of the atrium and a hanging glass, stainless-steel and oak staircase.

http://www.bdonline.co.uk/Pictures/web/s/y/k/Atriumview2.jpg

jrb

September 17th, 2005, 09:22 PM

85 metre high wind turbine planned for COMS, with viewing platform!

B of the Bang is a mere 55 metres high, 30 metres shorter!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/jkgiop.jpg

As a comparison, Portland Tower is only 80 metres tall, 5 metres shorter! :shocked:

http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/ewm/001ewm/lg/ManPortlandTwr72_2726.jpg

Jongeman

September 17th, 2005, 09:29 PM

I take it that the 85m is the height to the top of a vertical blade?

kids

September 17th, 2005, 09:45 PM

viewing platform! nice!

SleepyOne

September 17th, 2005, 09:46 PM

This is nowhere near Ancoats Urban Village. We need a new thread for East Manchester (and North and South).

jrb

September 17th, 2005, 09:49 PM

This is nowhere near Ancoats Urban Village. We need a new thread for East Manchester (and North and South).

Oh Sleepy!

I know it isn't! :bash:

Ps! Yes it is! It's only a 10-15 minute walk to COMS from Ancoats!

Not that far really! :wink2:

EarlyBird

September 17th, 2005, 09:51 PM

That newspaper article is technically inaccurate. With a fan the blades move the air, whereas with a turbine the air moves the blades.

:runaway:

jrb

September 17th, 2005, 09:53 PM

That newspaper article is technically inaccurate. With a fan the blades move the air, whereas with a turbine the air moves the blades.

:runaway:

Jesus Christ! I give up! :wallbash:

Ps. Just wait till I post the next MEN article!

I dread to think! :runaway:

SleepyOne

October 11th, 2005, 09:58 PM

Couple of items of news about one of Manchester's best developers, Artisan who are quietly transforming the fortunes of parts of Ancoats.

Estates Gazette is reporting that they have recieved the go-ahead for Express Networks Phase III, fronting Oldham Road.

http://tinypic.com/ei2geg.jpg

ExpressNetworks Phase III, will be the third and final exciting phase in the evolution of Manchester’s New Media Village. Based adjacent to Phase I, Phase III of this scheme will be a new build project and will complete the availability of high quality, contemporary office, residential and retail space in this increasingly popular area of the city

The development consists of five levels of high specification commercial space with retail space being available at ground level; two integrated levels of car parking and one level of residential apartments. All construction and fit out will be completed to Artisan’s high standards using only top quality products.

Also in today's MEN

Kettle on

REGENERATION specialist Artisan Holdings is toasting the opening of its latest restoration project at the Grade II listed Crown & Kettle pub. The building on Great Ancoats Street and Oldham Road stood vacant for more than 20 years. The traditional public house opened its doors again last Friday.

Ship Canal Developments (a JV between Artisan and Peel Holdings) also seem to be making great strides with their huge Eastside Valley scheme at the other end of Great Ancoats Street:

Eastside Valley

As a partnership with Manchester Ship Canal Developments Eastside Valley is Artisan’s first Joint Venture, the JV is known as ‘Artisan Ship Canal Developments’ (A.S.C.D).

The partnership’s vision is to create a truly mixed-use scheme that will encourage and champion the live/work ideal, providing residents with high quality accommodation coupled with state-of-the-art offices, retail spaces and public realms.
Phase one of this scheme will be submitted for full planning in November 2003, and will introduce the first residential development of the site, with 130 apartments set around a landscaped courtyard, above a 90 space under croft car park.
Phase one will create a thriving and sustainable residential community accommodated in a variety of apartment types (one, two and three bed duplexes) with generous amenity spaces. The main courtyard itself provides the whole scheme with a hub of interaction with facilities such as newspaper kiosk, bike stands and soft sculptural landscaped areas.

ASCD is currently talking to several Architect Practices re. drawing up a definitive Masterplan for this site, however we have already identified key features that must be included:
• A.S.C.D wish to create, and are being actively encouraged to do so by New East Manchester Ltd, a new and exciting landmark building. The landmark building will be one of the most visible features of the scheme due to its prime location on the corner of Great Ancoats Street and Every Street
• Development of the site will be undertaken over several phases. It is also anticipated that several ‘quarters’ will evolve, as A.S.C.D intend to use different architects for different sections of the scheme.
• Up to 100,000 sq. ft of commercial office space
• Approximately 650, 2 and 3 bed, en-suite apartments.
• Approximately 10,000 sq. ft of small retail units.
• High quality public realms
• Underground car parking.
• Intelligent traffic management / calming.

I think phase I and (from DJ's pic in the Crane Count thread) phase II are both now on site.

SleepyOne

October 11th, 2005, 10:04 PM

Here is dj's photograph showing Artisan's Albion works, almost complete in the background with, behind, the first phase of Eastside Valley with what I am assuming to be the second phase under construction in the foreground.

http://freake.demon.co.uk/sscpics/man018.jpg

jrb

October 21st, 2005, 12:48 AM

For those who haven't seen this site!

http://www.sarahvillage.co.uk/

skymann

October 21st, 2005, 01:06 PM

For those who haven't seen this site!

http://www.sarahvillage.co.uk/

Am confused. Sarah Tower is next to 111 Piccadilly. Where is sarahvillage supposed to be??

cottonopolis

October 21st, 2005, 02:44 PM

^^ I think it´s about here on Great Ancoats Street Skymann

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y66/cottonopolis/g.jpg

skymann

October 21st, 2005, 04:05 PM

^^ I think it´s about here on Great Ancoats Street Skymann

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y66/cottonopolis/g.jpg

Oh thanx, only know it as the Great Ancoats St tower. Should be good.

SleepyOne

November 2nd, 2005, 12:56 AM

http://www.chrisgibson.org/ancoats/images/header1.gif

http://www.ancoatslittleitaly.com/

Thanks for that fascinating link, Legin. (Reposted from the Northern Quarter thread).

http://www.chrisgibson.org/ancoats/images/header2.jpg
http://www.chrisgibson.org/ancoats/images/header3.gif

I do hope that Little Italy's heritage becomes more than just a marketing tool within the re-emerging Ancoats Urban Village. Would be nice to think there could be some sort of museum and authentic businesses enticed back there - even if is just a cluster of Italian restaurants or such like.

Legin

November 2nd, 2005, 10:54 AM

Thanks Sleepy - I Meant to put it in this one.

Craig

November 2nd, 2005, 02:42 PM

The thing is that although the Italian heritage is an important part of Ancoats history there were other waves of immigrants such as Irish, east European and more recently Asian. Few if any Italians actually reside there and so to create some theme park-esque Little Italy would be wrong. Chinatown works because Chinese people live and have businesses there. I am not against some sort of interpretation centre/small museum in the same way there is the Manchester Jewish Museum in Cheetham.

highriser

November 2nd, 2005, 08:00 PM

Looks like the ISIS tower development as started , groundwork as started

They just keep coming :)

Accura4Matalan

November 2nd, 2005, 08:06 PM

Remind me of how tall ISIS was... 20-storeys was it? :?

highriser

November 2nd, 2005, 08:11 PM

yeah i think it was 20 Accy

Accura4Matalan

November 2nd, 2005, 08:13 PM

Cheers :)

cottonopolis

November 2nd, 2005, 08:15 PM

Cheers Highriser!

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y66/cottonopolis/1724ISISWharfTower_pic1.jpg

Looks about 18 - 20 storeys..

caw123

November 2nd, 2005, 09:01 PM

I believe it's 22/23.

SleepyOne

November 2nd, 2005, 09:09 PM

This is not really within Ancoats Urban Village - more for the East Manchester thread but it does border it.

Never been keen on this building. Still think its a terrible shame what it replaced in Alsop's designs for this site. I await further renders but most of Broadway Malyan's schemes in Manchester are flawed in one way or another, in my opinion, so on that basis I dont hold out much hope.

Accura4Matalan

November 2nd, 2005, 09:10 PM

Looks fairly decent. The render isnt fantastic, but the origional looked 100 times worse :puke:

inquisitor57

November 3rd, 2005, 03:09 AM

I think it looks quite interesting, I like the 'steps' in the building, ensures its not another boring glass block.

Farsight

November 3rd, 2005, 11:49 AM

I think they said they'd be using copper and sandstone, which should make it look classy close up.

rolybling

November 3rd, 2005, 12:22 PM

Im trying to place where this is to be located??

caw123

November 3rd, 2005, 12:26 PM

It's on Gt Ancoats Street between the retail park and that group of new buildings one of which is Ovale.

Took a photo of the ISIS site about 2 weeks ago, there was nothing happening then......
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/1724ISISWharfTower_pic2.jpg

So ISIS are the developers for the whole scheme are they?

rolybling

November 3rd, 2005, 12:34 PM

cheers caw, I didn't realise it was so close to Ancoats St..I like it anyway, no idea about the developers..

What sort of potential do we reckon Ancoats St has got? I know its a bit grotty in places but I've always liked it, its a bit hostile for pedestrians though, it needs some sort of street level activity, decent bars, cafes' more galleries would be nice, it just seems under estimated to me, I think Ancoats St could become a really cool street with a bit of thought..

EDIT] OH and they need to tear down that bleeding retail park :bash:

Irish Blood English Heart

November 3rd, 2005, 02:49 PM

Its on the left if youre travelling down great ancoats street, oppisite that new Ivla store. I quite like it personally, though like Rolybling says the area needs sorting out for pedestrians.

highriser

November 5th, 2005, 05:19 PM

This is also in this weeks applications, is there any render's of this knocking about ?
Craig , have you got any info on this?

Bradford Ward 075171/FO/2005/N2 26/10/2005 Land Adjacent To The Ashton Canal Pollard Street/ Carruthers Street And Bond Street Beswick And Clayton REVISED PROPOSALS : Mixed Use Development comprising three buildings, one nine storey block, one seven storey block and one 22 storey block to provide 420 apartments, 1808sqm office space and 585sqm retail space, 235 car parking spaces and associated landscaping works after demolition of existing buildings

dgnr8

November 5th, 2005, 05:26 PM

It's ISIS IW innit?

highriser

November 5th, 2005, 05:29 PM

No matey this is a totally different one , it's where those horrible warehouses are at the top of Pollard St ,just as the road turns to get to City's stadium

ISIS has started matey :)

Craig

November 7th, 2005, 04:04 PM

I haven't got any images of this one. Broadway Malyan (I can hear some of you groaning already) are the architects. Its a revised app as the original one incorporated a refurbished mill building which burnt down.

Farsight

November 7th, 2005, 04:25 PM

Here's a link to their website. They seem to have done some quite nice stuff.

http://www.broadwaymalyan.com/projects/architecture/residential/islington-wharf-manchester.cfm?region=m

http://www.broadwaymalyan.com/bmalyan/dms/4B7BCB9B06A264E34349280387B81A0A.jpg

Design response: The striking mixed-use scheme features a 21-storey landmark tower in sandstone and copper

Farsight

November 7th, 2005, 04:28 PM

Testing

http://www.broadwaymalyan.com/projects/?region=m

Farsight

November 7th, 2005, 04:31 PM

Oooh. I like this University of Salford Law School proposal:

http://www.broadwaymalyan.com/projects/architecture/education/university-of-salford-law-school.cfm?region=m

http://www.broadwaymalyan.com/bmalyan/dms/36CBA278D7D4B704BAD4E2020AB23AA2.jpg

I don't know its status, but IMHO that is nice!

SleepyOne

November 7th, 2005, 10:48 PM

Im still very skeptical about ISIS Wharf. There are a few things which make me uphappy.

Firstly, look at the lowrise block and how the design has been almost completely replicated from BM's Eirie basin scheme. Thats just cheap.

Secondly its the shape and massing of the blocks. They are mere objects with apparently little visual relationship to each other. Looking at the renders I cannot get any intuative sense of the characteristics of the area they are located in, the layout of the site nor the direction and relative importance of the road and canal. In other words, this set of buildings seems to display all the inherent faults of Eire Basin and.... Piccadilly Plaza! I would dearly love to be proved entirely wrong here. Maybe there is some subtlety which the renders can't convey but BM's shemes to date dont fill me with confidence.

That Law school looks interesting - amost Alsop-esque. Why its in this thread Im not sure though!

Farsight

November 8th, 2005, 12:23 PM

It was on the Broadway Malyan website, Sleepy. They seem to have a bad reputation here, but the stuff on their website looks OK. Do they have a bad reputation here, and can you say why?

I know what you mean about the two block relating to each other. I like the bigger block at the rear, but the smaller block at the front doesn't match it too well. If it shared the same slanting verticals and zigzag slope it might look more harmonious and pleasing.

http://www.broadwaymalyan.com/bmalyan/dms/4B7BCB9B06A264E34349280387B81A0A.jpg

Craig

November 8th, 2005, 12:30 PM

But then you are at risk of the development beginning to look the same and a bit monolithic. I prefer variety within a development that comprises distinct parts and there are many ways of achieving that - not quite sure BM have got it bang on with this one,

Accura4Matalan

November 8th, 2005, 12:31 PM

Its similar to the old plan for Clarence Dock in Leeds. The Leeds tower was clad in white though.

Farsight

November 8th, 2005, 03:55 PM

You mean this one?

http://www.leeds-developments.connectfree.co.uk/img1.jpg

inquisitor57

November 8th, 2005, 03:58 PM

I have to say I prefer the Leeds design, although the Manchester one certainly is a little more original in its use of colour and cladding.

Farsight

November 8th, 2005, 04:28 PM

Can I have the Manchester ziggedyzag tower sloping all the way to the ground like some razorback armadillo, in the Leeds colours please? Weasty? How about a bit of photoshoppin?

SleepyOne

November 8th, 2005, 11:44 PM

I dont think there is much point in comparing an unrealised concept visual to a bona fide proposal which is starting on site. You could say this development shares characteristics with virtually every proposal out there... but to me, the similarities between the lowrise block here and the lowrise block within Broadway Malyan's Erie Basin scheme is staggaring. This alone suggests they have not put much thought or effort into this project.

The highrise block I find doesn't have pleasing proportions and the two together seem not to relate nor say anything about their environs. Its just plain odd. That said, the other render reveals the tower to have considerable depth and quite a complex shape so maybe Im selling it short but as Ive said, their other schemes such as The Edge are quite dreadfully detailed and have scant regard for context too. NV Buildings are not perfect either.

All in all Im worried. The fact that even with two renders it is difficult to perceive and orientate this development in my mind's eye within its environment (and I consider myself to have quite a good sense of spacial awareness) says a lot. Lets just hope that there is much more to this development than the renders can convey and take comfort in the prospect of some high quality cladding.

dgnr8

November 9th, 2005, 12:58 AM

Top marks on the Erie Basin observation, I fully agree with you there.

Manc Guy

November 9th, 2005, 01:33 AM

Is it brick or a copper cladding? God forbid another brick monstroisty...

Farsight

November 9th, 2005, 10:31 AM

It said sandstone and copper.

highriser

November 12th, 2005, 12:59 AM

The Ancoat's revolution just keeps on steaming ahead :)
All from todays apps

Ancoats And Clayton Ward 077217/FO/2005/N1 01/11/2005 Car Park On New Mount Street/Simpson Street Ancoats Erection of part 7 and part 8 storey building comprising 229 units of student accommodation with 70 parking spaces at ground and lower ground floor levels

Ancoats And Clayton Ward 077449/FO/2005/N1 04/11/2005 Former Bengal Mill Situated On The Junction Of Naval Street Bengal Street And Jersey Street Ancoats Erection of a mixed use development comprising 128 residential apartments 1916sqm commercial floorspace (B1), car parking with related access and associated works following the demolition of remaining structures associated with Bengal Mill, and remedial works to stabilize and make good Beehive Mill

Ancoats And Clayton Ward 077455/LO/2005/N1 04/11/2005 Former Bengal Mill Situated On The Junction Of Naval Street Bengal Street And Jersey Street Ancoats LISTED BUILDING CONSENT demolition of remaining structures associated with Bengal Mill and remedial works to stabilize and make good Beehive Mill

Ancoats And Clayton Ward 077507/LO/2005/N1 02/11/2005 The Former Goulden Street Police And Fire Station Goulden Street New Cross Ancoats LISTED BUILDING CONSENT. Demolition of building

caw123

November 12th, 2005, 02:17 AM

Some Ancoats chuff
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/PB070065copy.jpg

I like this lot
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/PB070061copy.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/PB070060copy.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/PB070057copy.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/PB070054copy.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/PB070050copy.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/PB070049copy.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/PB070041copy.jpg

And me stood on the ISIS site, note aforementioned drill.
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/1724ISISWharfTower_pic3.jpg

Northbeach

November 12th, 2005, 02:32 AM

Was inside Cuba Cafe recently (friend was taking photographs inside).
You should go in for a beer - they have cuban dancing classes on most nights.
Not sure if they still do it, but there uses to some kind of topless cuban dancers serving you upstairs?!?!?

9462

November 12th, 2005, 02:46 AM

is the building on the 4th pic being demolished? I hope not

skymann

November 12th, 2005, 09:01 AM

is the building on the 4th pic being demolished? I hope not

That's the old Ancoats Hospital and it is gonna stay as part of the development. Being made into apartments. They should be pretty good. Wonder how much they'll sell for??

Accura4Matalan

November 12th, 2005, 05:30 PM

I'm very pleased that the old Ancoats hospital is getting redone. Tis a great building. That Cuba Cafe looks like a very cool little piece of urban culture too :)

SleepyOne

November 15th, 2005, 11:35 PM

News on a new development at Bengal Mill and at the titanic Royal Mills site.

A double take for Ancoats
David Thame

http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/ContentResources/580.$plit/C_17_Articles_181976_BodyWeb_Detail_0_Image.jpg
ING Real Estate's new business centre

A DOUBLE development is about to recharge the residential and office scene in Ancoats.

In the first, Nikal, the Manchester property company backed by millionaire Lancashire industrialist Alan Murphy has announced plans for an £18m development.

The second is a 72,000-sq ft business centre by ING Real Estate at the £85m Royal Mill.

Nikal - founded two years ago by Murphy and property developer Nick Payne - is to build 18,500 sq ft of office space and 128 apartments at Bengal Mill, near Piccadilly station.

The scheme will be built as a joint venture with Flint-based David McLean Developments, supported by Euro-funding. It will also require compulsory purchase orders to create the site.

It is not the first time the two companies have worked together. They are partners on the £350m Masshouse scheme in Birmingham and the planned £150m regeneration of Altrincham town centre.

Regeneration

Nikal/David McLean aim to start on site by summer 2006 with completion expected in spring 2008. The scheme already has the backing of urban regeneration company, New East Manchester.

The plan marks a return to central Manchester for Nick Payne, a chartered surveyor and a former director of both Westport Developments and Ask Developments, who was behind some of Manchester's most high-profile retail and leisure schemes in the 1990s.

They include Barca, the bar which helped transform the Castlefield canal basin in the mid-1990s; the Malmaison Hotel, and Deansgate Locks, the award-winning development which converted disused railway arches by the canal into fashionable bars and shops.

Murphy previously owned AM Paper Converters, a Skelmersdale company he set up in 1983, supplying own-label toilet paper to supermarkets. He sold the company in 1997.

ING Real Estate's plans for Royal Mills have also been unveiled for a 72,000-sq ft, fully-fitted business centre. When complete, Royal Mills will provide a total of 4,056 sq m (43,660 sq ft) of business space in two phases, with 312 apartments. Agents are Drivers Jonas and Jencis.

Craig - are there any images around for the Bengal Mill site? Who are the architects?

Northbeach

November 16th, 2005, 02:09 AM

Craig

November 16th, 2005, 06:26 PM

Craig - are there any images around for the Bengal Mill site? Who are the architects?

Leach Rhodes Walker - they have provided some CGIs for the planning app. The development consists of two distinct buildings linked via a meeting room. One is faced with a dark blue brick (large bricks not the standard UK size ones) the other is finished in a white render with a rounded corner to it. Its a good mix of offices and resi. Doubt the scheme itself will win any design awards but its OK.

Craig

November 16th, 2005, 06:30 PM

The pic in the MEN of the Royal Mills looked as though this was almost complete?
Either that or is was a very good render/bad reading light?

Any retail incorporated within this? Looks like a nice environment to wile away half an hour.

The image in MEN is a CGI - pretty convincing though but no the scheme is not finished yet. The internal glass covered courtyard will incorporate some food/booze units and there is a covered retail mini-mall in another part of the scheme that will be part of phase two.

SleepyOne

November 16th, 2005, 08:56 PM

Leach Rhodes Walker - they have provided some CGIs for the planning app. The development consists of two distinct buildings linked via a meeting room. One is faced with a dark blue brick (large bricks not the standard UK size ones) the other is finished in a white render with a rounded corner to it. Its a good mix of offices and resi. Doubt the scheme itself will win any design awards but its OK.

Thanks Craig. The render in the MEN of part of the development looked remarkably similar to the Nikal development off Chapel Street - also by LWR, and not something I found particularly attractive so I was hoping it wasn't LWR for this Ancoats development too.

Thanks for the detail about cladding materials. I think we should have better aspirations than "ok" - especially in such a sensitive and distinctive part of the city as Ancoats Urban Village. I await (with trepidation) to see the renders.

Craig

November 16th, 2005, 10:12 PM

Thanks Craig. The render in the MEN of part of the development looked remarkably similar to the Nikal development off Chapel Street - also by LWR, and not something I found particularly attractive so I was hoping it wasn't LWR for this Ancoats development too.

Thanks for the detail about cladding materials. I think we should have better aspirations than "ok" - especially in such a sensitive and distinctive part of the city as Ancoats Urban Village. I await (with trepidation) to see the renders.

I agree Sleepy AUV deserves the best, but it is the developer that chooses the architect and quite often its the wrong choice. LRW certainly aren't Manchester's worst but you can do a lot better. The good news is that there are some very good architects working in Ancoats including Richard Murphy Architects on Murrays Mills.

SleepyOne

November 17th, 2005, 12:22 AM

I agree Sleepy AUV deserves the best, but it is the developer that chooses the architect and quite often its the wrong choice. LRW certainly aren't Manchester's worst but you can do a lot better. The good news is that there are some very good architects working in Ancoats including Richard Murphy Architects on Murrays Mills.

Yes LRW seem to be one of those middle ranking practices that has the capacity to to produce some pretty impressive buildings such as Liverpool's Malmaison and Jefferson Place in Green Quarter but also some less good ones. I havn't been impressed with their proposal for Chapel St and going off the render in the MEN yesterday Im dubious about this proposal too. Still, lets wait and see.

*********

As for Richard Murphy Architects proposals for Murrays Mills, yeah I posted them up a while ago - very impressive. :) Any idea when its due to start?? Their website states summer '06 which I presume is accurate?

Ancoats Urban Village - Murrays Mills

This complex of buildings arranged in a quadrangle was built between the years 1798 and 1806 in Ancoats, an historic industrial suburb of Manchester. It currently consists of the Old/Decker Mill and the New Mill with their associated Engine Houses and the former administration building on Murray Street.

Ancoats Buildings Preservation Trust were the client for the shell-repair and conservation works began on site in September 2004. Our client, The Burrell Company / Inpartnership Ltd., has commissioned us to design proposals for the development of these important buildings.

Our scheme, which was identified as the preferred development scheme (won in competition in September 2004) proposes a mixed use for the site consisting 112 apartments and 1700m2 of office space within the mill buildings and engine houses; a Textile Resource Centre / Fashion Centre of Excellence within the Murray Street building; and a 60-bedroom new-build 'boutique' hotel on the currently vacant eastern side of the quad. The proposal will also reinstate the canal basin at the centre of the quad.

The architectural vision for the re-inhabitation of Murray's Mills is to create an enclosed central space, and to make new architecture which clearly differentiates between the restored historic buildings and new insertions. Externally, the new elements consist of corten-steel staircase/lift towers to the Old Mill and the Old Mill Engine House (echoing the form of the existing staircase); new external staircases to the first floor flats in the New Mill; and a glazed lift to one side of the Old Mill's existing brick staircase. The rebuilding of the top two stories of the Murray Street building would clearly present the contemporary exterior of the versatile new internal space of the Fashion Centre of Excellence.

Each mill has been developed with very differing residential strategies, neither utilizing the usual repetitive internal corridor solution with its inevitable single aspect flats. Instead, we wanted to consider alternative options to establish through-aspect flats so that the width and structural rhythm of the original warehouse could be appreciated.

New Mill: Taking our inspiration from the famous Unite d'Habitation in Marseilles by Le Corbusier, the top three floors have been provided with a central corridor down the middle (third) floor, the corridor giving access to a of a variety of flats on all three levels. The corridor itself is accessed using the existing Mill staircase and new liftshaft. This strategy has the advantage of ensuring the maximum number of possible through-aspect flats and therefore allowing a better reading of the original scale and structural rhythm of the building from within.

Old Mill: The strategy has been to externalise the circulation using three cores, one being the existing staircase and the other two being new corten-steel staircases and glazed lift towers. This approach allows us to make the incisions required for apartment access in a forensic manner, i.e. in lieu of new lift and stair cores within the historic structure. The flats have been planned so as to provide as many as possible through-aspect and, in a number of cases, through-space layouts which would give views of both the courtyard and the canal from the main living spaces.

Planning & Listed Building Consent Applications were submitted in September 2005 with an expected site start for the development of the apartments and offices in the Summer of 2006.

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/projects/images/1129.jpg

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/projects/images/1122.jpg

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/projects/images/1123.jpg

Farsight

November 17th, 2005, 12:48 PM

markydeedrop

November 17th, 2005, 09:02 PM

http://www.piccadillymanchester.com/images/bengalmill.jpg

Nikal, Manchester property company backed by millionaire Lancashire industrialist Alan Murphy, have announced plans for an £18 million development at Bengal Mill near Piccadilly station.

Founded two years ago by Murphy and property developer Nick Payne, Nikal are to build 18,500 sq ft of office space and 128 apartments at the Bengal Mill site.

Whilst the scheme requires a compulsory purchase order to create the site, it is already being backed from urban regeneration company, New East Manchester and has been successful in securing Euro-funding.

A joint venture with David McLean Developments, this will not be the first time the two companies have worked together. They are also partners on the £350m Masshouse scheme in Birmingham and the planned £150m regeneration of Altrincham town centre.

Nikal and David McLean aim to start on the site by summer 2006 with completion expected by spring 2008.

Craig

November 18th, 2005, 12:17 AM

When it comes to architects, don't forget the client has his own vision, and a budget. So when you see something that doesn't impress, it's not always all down to the architect.

Mind you this Murray Mills does sound like the architect's vision, and I'm not sure it quite works. The glass and stuff gives a nice glitz, but I were the client I'd be looking for the new portion to be brick faced with regular windows and a pitched roof. Maybe yellow brick for that old/new distinction. I'd also be thinking about losing the boilerhouse and chimney, and covering all buildings in bright (eg green) pitched roofs, but that might be pushing it too far because it's listed.

You're right there's no way you'd get away with an intervention of that scale on a Grade II* Listed structure - particularly Manchester's oldest surviving cotton spinning mill.

Timescale wise Sleepy I think summer 06 is still possible if optimistic. The shell repair scheme that's underway at the moment will not finish until spring.

Craig

November 18th, 2005, 12:20 AM

skymann

November 18th, 2005, 02:41 PM

Near Piccadilly station? Useless MEN hacks

You do wonder if some of the useless so-called journos from MEN have ever set foot in Mcr, they seem to know so few facts about the place. Maybe they just can't get off their fat arses and find out the facts.
Have stopped buying the MEN coz the writing's so shit.

SleepyOne

November 19th, 2005, 03:16 PM

Interesting article on Murray's Mills (pictured post #123) from Cobbetts' website no less.

Further Regeneration For Ancoats
Nov 16 2005

Leading law firm Cobbetts has advised Ancoats Buildings Preservation Trust (ABPT) on the £11.5 million shell repair project for Murrays’ Mills in Ancoats, Manchester.

http://www.cobbetts.co.uk/main/cms/includes/asp/CMFileGetFile.asp?fi=2341&x=285&y=213

Murrays’ Mills were built in 1798 are Grade II* listed, which puts them in the top 6% of listed buildings in England. The mills are located within the Ancoats Conservation Area, in a region short-listed for designation by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

ABPT secured funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the North West Development Agency to carry out the restoration project at Murrays’ Mills. Kate Dickson, Director ABPT explains: “The historic essence of Murrays’ Mills will be preserved through the sensitive restoration and strengthening of these Georgian structures which is well underway and due for completion in Spring 2006.” The construction work is being undertaken by Wates Construction with BDP and GTMS providing architectural and project management services.

Upon completion of the shell repairs project, Murrays’ Mills will be handed back to their owner, the NWDA, who compulsory purchased the property as part of a larger CPO within Ancoats.

Following a developer competition, the NWDA has appointed Inpartnership as their preferred developer to fit out the buildings following the completion of the shell repairs project and, to return Murrays’ Mills to active use. It is anticipated that the lower ground floor will provide commercial space, with residential apartments on the upper floors. Inpartnership hope to attract a boutique hotel in part of the complex.

Mark Barker, Partner at Cobbetts comments: “The repair and re-use of the mill complex is important for the social and technological history of the country and, for the regeneration of Ancoats. Throughout the project there has been a very strong emphasis on the heritage and conservation issues and, as a result, future occupiers will be subject to restrictions which protect and preserve the heritage and conservation status of the buildings.”

Look at the present state of the complex in the picture above. Hard to believe the transformation proposed for these buildings. Will look excellent when complete.

So apartments, a boutique hotel, office space and as is stated on the archtiects' website a "Textile Resource Centre / Fashion Centre of Excellence". - Craig any more info on this last element?

Craig

November 21st, 2005, 01:19 PM

So apartments, a boutique hotel, office space and as is stated on the archtiects' website a "Textile Resource Centre / Fashion Centre of Excellence". - Craig any more info on this last element?

The textile centre thing is highly unlikely to go ahead - its a long story and concerns decisions made beyond the control of the developer.

Craig

November 21st, 2005, 06:30 PM

An image of the Nikal/David McLean proposal for the former Bengal Street Mill site:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v225/Traffordcraig/Bengalmill2.jpg

Farsight

November 21st, 2005, 07:41 PM

Now that I like. ^^

Echoes of the GN tower facade? There seems to be some sort of "21st Century" style emerging, where the windows are grouped into sleek boxes, and modest relief and/or curves adds interest to an otherwise cost-effective building. I like it.

In contrast the new portion proposed for Murray Mills looks somehow "20th Century". I hope it gets revised. Maybe to key into the older portions, eg with regular windows and a black roof. Otherwise I think they'd be better off sticking with the old style throughout and go for some symmetry.

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/projects/images/1122.jpg

SleepyOne

November 21st, 2005, 09:17 PM

Thanks for that image Craig. Better than I expected. Particularly like the detail around the windows to the darker blue block.

highriser

December 13th, 2005, 09:29 PM

I honestly think that, people dont realise how much regeneration is going on around here, there are loads of development's on the go :)

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/december13th003.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/december13th004.jpg

And these funky house's have shot up :) i didnt know these had started
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/december13th006.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/december13th005.jpg

highriser

December 13th, 2005, 09:32 PM

This peice of crap is nearly gone fron Gt Ancoat's St
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/december13th001.jpg
The back of the Murray Mills
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/december13th002.jpg

Accura4Matalan

December 13th, 2005, 10:22 PM

Cheers highriser. Those funky new townhouses have way exceeded my expectations. I'm very pleased with the outcome there :) When the hoardings come down and give it some good weather, they are going to look fantastic :cool:

Northbeach

December 14th, 2005, 01:31 AM

Cheers for the updates there Highriser - not as easy to hitch yourself round this neck of the woods.
Those builders must've been p*ssing themselves creating such houses.
Interesting, I'll give em that.

SleepyOne

December 14th, 2005, 01:56 AM

Great pics Highriser. Your second image and your last image are of the enourmous Royal Mills development as opposed to Murrays Mills which arn't due to start on site until mid '06 according to Craig.

http://www.knightfrank.co.uk/propertyImages/mrd040006_08.jpg
ROYAL MILLS

http://www.knightfrank.co.uk/propertyImages/mrd040005_05.jpg
ROYAL MILLS

Potato Man

December 14th, 2005, 02:17 AM

SleepyOne

December 14th, 2005, 02:47 AM

Thanks Potatoman. Yes, Craig mentioned the shell repair phase of the works above. Got ahead of myself there.

Craig

December 14th, 2005, 12:14 PM

Actually Sleepy, work is on site at Murrays. We just need to differentiate between the shell repair project, which will stop the mill complex from falling down and the work Inpartnership group will do transform these buildings into useable space for the 21st century.

Wates are currently performing the publicly funded shell repair contract. I think it's due to finish in about April, after which Inpartnership's guy's will be able to take over.

Probably looking at more like Sept 06 before Wates finish off with Burrell/Inpartnership taking over after that.

Some of you may have picked up on the resumption of demolition works on the BSC site which is good news - they appear to be back on with all their sites now but I am unclear as to why work halted in the first place.

SleepyOne

December 20th, 2005, 01:51 AM

Two futher images of the Royal Mills development.

http://www.driversjonas.co.uk/img.aspx?CID=672691&LangID=1http://www.driversjonas.co.uk/img.aspx?CID=672690&LangID=1

... to add to these which have already been posted.

http://www.knightfrank.co.uk/propertyImages/mrd040006_08.jpghttp://www.knightfrank.co.uk/propertyImages/mrd040005_05.jpg

SleepyOne

December 20th, 2005, 02:01 AM

Further image of the Bengal Mill project which is the one that was printed in the MEN to accompany the recent news.

http://www.driversjonas.co.uk/img.aspx?CID=666799&LangID=1
BENGAL MILLS

^^ This was the image that set alarm bells ringing as it seemed to bear an uncanny resemblance to the office / resi development being constructed off Chapel Street by the same architects (LRW).

I think actually it depicts the rear or less prominent side of what appears to be actually quite a handsome development:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v225/Traffordcraig/Bengalmill2.jpg
BENGAL MILLS (previously posted by Craig)

David McLean Nikal Regneration Ltd is proposing a mixed-use scheme comprising the development of two blocks extending up to 8-storeys in height and providing 128 residential units and approximately 1,916 sq. m of office space at ground and first floor level.

This £15 million scheme is a major regeneration project in the heart of Ancoats Urban Village in Manchester.

our role

Throughout the pre-application process, an extensive amount of consultation and negotiation took place primarily with Manchester City Council’s Planning Team, but also with other bodies such as Ancoats Urban Village Company, Ancoats Building Preservation Trust, Greater Manchester Police Architectural Liaison Officer, English Heritage and Manchester City Council’s Sustainability Officer.

Drivers Jonas advised on strategy for dealing with complex planning issues such as BREEAM/EcoHomes requirements, disabled access, Section 106 Agreement, sensitive above and below ground archaeology and demolition of a listed building that had become structurally unsafe.

Farsight

December 20th, 2005, 12:11 PM

Thanks for the info SleepyOne.

I like that Bengal Mills. It's got a sleek 21st century elegance that contrasts and lifts the older building on the right bringing it back to modern life. Yep, handsome.

But I don't like that Royal Mills. It looks like an overbuilt cluttery mishmash of unattractive cheap old buildings and humdrum newbuilds, with no glitz visible from off site. IMHO the result is ugly, and a tragic demonstration of what not to do. People will see this and say stuff heritage.

Craig

December 20th, 2005, 03:58 PM

That's quite an old version of Bengal Mills Sleepy, if you look to the extreme left of the image I posted you'll see the blue brick is continued down to the ground floor albeit with the white render frames. Its anticipated that this scheme will alter somewhat as a result of the planning process so don't fall in love with it too much.

SleepyOne

December 20th, 2005, 10:06 PM

I hope it doesn't alter too much in the course of the planning process as it seems to stand up well to the thus-far excellent quality of developments within Ancoats Urban Village.

SleepyOne

December 23rd, 2005, 03:13 AM

This article was posted by highriser back in August but well worth reposting in light of news that this excellent scheme looks to be making renewed progress!

Description - 13 storey residential / ground floor commercial scheme fronting Great Ancoats St
Developer - BSC group
Architects - Lifschutz Davidson (implementation architects - Arca ?)

King Sturge Manchester Residential instructed on £27million scheme
05 August 2005

Ancoats’ boom to decline and back to boom again

http://www.kingsturge.com/resources/news/images/ManAncoats1.jpg

Manchester’s Residential team has been instructed by developers, BSC Group, on the £27 million scheme in Ancoats, just outside the City Centre.

Demolition is already in progress and the new Ancoats Sarah Village is to be completed by the end of 2007. The development and construction of this landmark scheme has two buildings, 139 residential units, retail and leisure facilities and mixed use businesses.

There will be one, two, three and four bedroom apartments, located on Great Ancoats Street (sometimes referred to as “the World’s first industrial suburb”) at the top of Newton Street with 94 car parking spaces.

In approximately three to four weeks, release of 30 two bedroom units (without parking) will be available to the investment market from £144,000 to £166,500.

The development of Ancoats began in the late 1700s, and peaked during the Industrial Revolution, but it saw its fair share of casualties during the two World Wars and there was further decline in the 1960s with the mass clearance of the area's terraced homes, the population was re-housed in the north and east of the city. The mills, attracting decreasing rents, fell into disrepair.

Newspaper printing, one of Ancoats' 20th Century industries, fell victim to changes in technology, with the Daily Express ceasing to be published from its famous black glass building in 1989. The closure of the Express Printers was also the start of Ancoats' renewal, and part of it now is a designated Conservation Area.

http://www.driversjonas.com/img.aspx?CID=643422&LangID=1

http://www.driversjonas.com/img.aspx?CID=643423&LangID=1

Anyone been past the site in the past few days to check on progress?

highriser

December 24th, 2005, 05:05 PM

Sleepy i drove past this site this morning, it's been totally demolished now, so all clear to start :)

jrb

December 30th, 2005, 12:15 AM

Sleepy i drove past this site this morning, it's been totally demolished now, so all clear to start :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture149.jpg

highriser

December 30th, 2005, 06:46 PM

Cheers for all your recent pic's jrb, yeah it good to see the back of that building,it was was in a bad state, Gt Ancoat's St as huge potential in the next couple of years, i do hope something is done with that Brownfield Mill across the road,that is also in a bad way, i am all for keeping the old mills and regenerating them ,but that one is nothing special, it needs to go.

I see the new IVLA store as got a huge underground carpark , coupled with the new multi storey carpark behind it,this would free the carparking problem, when the Eastgate site carpark closes :)

jrb

January 5th, 2006, 09:43 PM

Another development for Ancoats.

076664/FO/2005/N1 11/08/2005 30/36 Swan Street Ancoats Erection of 7 storey building to form 18 residential apartments with class A1/A3 units at ground flo... Application Pending Consideration

Erection of 7 storey building to form 18 residential apartments with class A1/A3 units at ground floor

Hodder Associates

highriser

January 5th, 2006, 09:44 PM

Piccadilly from Ancoat's
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0563.jpg
I had a wander around Artisan's Eastside Valley site today, i didnt realise how massive it is, anyway here's how its getting on .
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0559.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0558.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0560.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0562.jpg

pookgai

January 5th, 2006, 11:21 PM

Nice to see so much progress. It's going to be a great addition to Manchester.

Farsight

January 6th, 2006, 02:28 AM

Neat.

SleepyOne

January 21st, 2006, 02:14 AM

Thanks jrb for scanning these. Interesting to read the article and view the real-life images above!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/EAST111.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/EAST3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/EAST2.jpg

Developers, Artisan doing great work as always.

Really looking forward to Bengal Street starting on site. MBLC always seem to produce some stunning designs (colour image below).

http://www.lifebuildings.com/images/bs41_big.jpg

jrb

January 27th, 2006, 01:52 AM

May have been posted before? if not have a butchers. Lots of info and images.

Ancoats Village - Manchester

Richard Murphy architects.

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/projects/images/1129.jpg

http://www.richardmurphyarchitects.com/projects/394/

SleepyOne

January 27th, 2006, 01:59 AM

^^ Murray's Mills. See previous page.

dgnr8

January 27th, 2006, 02:11 AM

If anybody can pick up this month's PaD, there's an article on The Royal Mills redevelopment. I've not had a chance to have a gander myself, just seen the front cover.

jrb

January 27th, 2006, 02:19 AM

^^ Murray's Mills. See previous page.

Spot on as usual Sleeps! :)

jrb

January 30th, 2006, 07:57 PM

The applications keep rolling in.

077217/FO/2005/N1 07/10/2005 Car Park On New Mount Street/Simpson Street Ancoats Erection of part 7 and part 8 storey building comprising 229 units of student accommodation with 70 ... Application Pending Consideration

Erection of part 7 and part 8 storey building comprising 229 units of student accommodation with 70 parking spaces at ground and lower ground floor levels

jrb

February 8th, 2006, 11:00 PM

This months Febuary issue of PAD magazine features the Royal Mills redevelopment.

The home page also features a flash rendering of a rather large tower. It's location is anyones guess?

http://www.padmag.co.uk/

Potato Man

February 8th, 2006, 11:48 PM

That be Globe Road in Leeds Jerbie.

http://www.leeds-cityscape.co.uk/monk.jpg

highriser

February 9th, 2006, 12:32 AM

A crane might be going up soon on the Gt Ancoats St tower site (BSC),you can see it at one end of the site.

jrb

February 9th, 2006, 12:50 AM

That be Globe Road in Leeds Jerbie.

http://www.leeds-cityscape.co.uk/monk.jpg

Many thanks Pots! :)

jrb

February 9th, 2006, 12:53 AM

Approved

076932/FO/2005/N1

Murrays Mills
Redhill Street/Jersey Street
Ancoats

Conversion and alterations to existing mill buildings to allow mixed use development including 112 no. residential units (including 10 no live/work units) 1237sq metres office space. Erection of lift/stair towers and access ramps within courtyard. Associated landscaping including re-instatement of canal basin

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/publicaccess/dc/DcApplication/application_detailview.aspx?caseno=IMHY6JBC62000&searchtype=WEEKLY

dgnr8

February 9th, 2006, 12:56 AM

It's not the best mag, but it's alright. Focuses on Leeds, Manc and Liverpool and only (well, mostly) features residential developments. It's the only architecture related magazine we get at work so I always have a gander when the new issues out. There's some lovely pics of the Royal Mills interior. Looks very like the renders suggested. Should be an exciting place to mince around. Reminds me slightly of The Light in Leeds.

Farsight

February 9th, 2006, 03:50 PM

That Leeds tower sure is something. Shame about the stuff in the middle, looks like council flats from 1959.

dgnr8

February 9th, 2006, 08:21 PM

It'll depend on materials. I still reckon that's terracotta tiles, despite LCC saying they won't accept that for cladding anymore. Could either be great or more mundane shit.

highriser

February 21st, 2006, 09:13 PM

Groundwork as started on that land behind the Crown+Kettle pub, cant remember what was going there now. Anyone ?

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0642.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0641.jpg
And groundwork as also started on the Ancoats St tower,,was gonna get a pic of the site but nearly got splattered by a lorry so i fucked off

The Longford

February 21st, 2006, 09:28 PM

Groundwork as started on that land behind the Crown+Kettle pub, cant remember what was going there now. Anyone ?

Just some rubbish residential - too high , too bland.

highriser

February 21st, 2006, 09:33 PM

You having another attack of the nimby's Longy ? :)

Found a small render of it.

http://tinypic.com/ei2geg.jpg

Craig

February 22nd, 2006, 03:09 PM

Just some rubbish residential - too high , too bland.

Erm, not quite. Its Express Networks Phase 3 and its neither high nor residential (some apartments but mostly office space).

highriser

February 22nd, 2006, 03:41 PM

Craig

February 22nd, 2006, 04:56 PM

Ey Craig ,, whats happening to that little building just behind the BSC site, cant think what its called, the windows have been boarded up for ages, when i went past yeserday, it looked like some work had started on it.

Its called the Gun Street Warehouse (I don't think that's the official name just what people refer to it as). Its actually part of the BSC developement as the scheme occupies the block next to Great Ancoats Street and the next block behind that (but Gun St remains if . This building will be retained and incorporated within new build parts (I know you're quite partial to a bit of old/new juxtasposition). I think the idea is initially have the show apartment/marketing suite in here so should see some action soon.

jrb

March 1st, 2006, 01:11 AM

078197/CC/2006/N1

Classic Homes

Howard And Seddon Partnership

66 Jersey Street
Ancoats

CONSERVATION AREA CONSENT for the demolition of existing buildings in connection with the subsequent redevelopment of the site

Erection of part four/five/six/seven/eight storey buildings comprising 110 residential units and six A1, A2 and B1 units (462 square metres in total) with associated car parking, landscaping and works to canal arm

SleepyOne

March 1st, 2006, 01:24 AM

^^ Architects Howard and Seddon Partnership. Who are these guys and are they any good?

Presumably Longford has had or will have sight of this application?

The Longford

March 1st, 2006, 01:53 AM

^^ Architects Howard and Seddon Partnership. Who are these guys and are they any good?

Presumably Longford has had or will have sight of this application?

Dont get me started on this one!
I'm a self confessed architect groupie and look at architects in the way some people look at footballers or pop stars.
In that respect Howard and Seddon are the Stockport County and Black Lace of architecture.
I let people who know and care more about industrial architecture than me comment on such things but i will say these charlatans have got no idea about new-build never mind trying to respect the fabric of an historic mill. They have totally mis understood both the mill they are tacking on to and the design cues that this area offers.
Are they any good? Do you want a frank and honest answer?

SleepyOne

March 1st, 2006, 02:05 AM

Thanks Longford, I suspected as much. The 'stepped' nature of the description in itself sent alarm bells ringing for me as more often than not it seems to be used as a tool to pay lip service to an historic context yet only succeeds in compromising the integrity of both the new build as well as the historic.

Quite surprised to see Classic Homes branching out into such development - they arn't really known for imaginative, quality new-build developments (or even refurbishments for that matter). They're a typical faceless, money-grabbing South Manchester landlord. No suprise then if they're employing the cheapest architect going!

If it is as bad as you say, lets hope the planners see good sense and run the bandits out of town!

Craig

March 1st, 2006, 04:38 PM

Sleepy/Longford

I can't argue with your assessment Howard and Seddon are bargain basement and their tie up with Classic homes is a well worn path in S Manc. They are not the planners favorites either (certainly in Manc) and I'm sure they'll not get an easy ride with this one. Problem is you, as you know, you can't refuse an application based on the generally poor product of a particular architecture practice. Yes you can make it difficult but ultimately if it is refused without legitimate planning reasons then its open to challenge and MCC will not want to go down that route. I know a lot about the circumstances here and so have to be careful what I say but suffice to say the powers that be are not exactly salivating at the mouth at the prospect of a H and S scheme in Ancoats but there maybe only so much they can do.

The Longford

March 1st, 2006, 06:45 PM

Erm, not quite. Its Express Networks Phase 3 and its neither high nor residential (some apartments but mostly office space).

You are right - thats not the scheme i originally saw for that site. Do apologise - perhaps for once Mr Babb listened to us 'nimbys' (partly right - Ancoats isnt my back yard!) and asked them to lower it and de-bland.

b4mmy

March 1st, 2006, 07:33 PM

...I can't argue with your assessment Howard and Seddon are bargain basement
Most of the time, you're only as good as your client and your budget... Karl might do a great job here, and it might change peoples perceptions.

The Longford

March 1st, 2006, 08:18 PM

Most of the time, you're only as good as your client and your budget... Karl might do a great job here, and it might change peoples perceptions.

Not a friend of yours is he b4mmy?
I'm sorry if he is but i've seen lots of schemes by them of all shapes and sizes and i've never been enamored with any of them. I dont like to jealously criticise people who have more skills and talents than me and perhaps young Karl will pull something out of the bag but going on H & S's past record they could have the best client and the biggest budget and still get it wrong.
Sorry if i offended you if he is a friend.

b4mmy

March 2nd, 2006, 02:59 AM

Not a friend of yours is he b4mmy?

No. As I said about another practice a while back there are real people behind these companies that are just doing the best they can with what they have. H&S shouldn't be consigned to a dustbin, any more than you or I...

I am a great believer in people, and you only have one life at the end of the day..., a building can be rebuilt if it aint right. Might take a while, but the building will always get a second chance.

dgnr8

March 2nd, 2006, 08:41 AM

We all need to start somewhere. If you will, ISA went from the quite standard Foyer in Brum to our Beetham.

Craig

March 2nd, 2006, 11:48 AM

Don't get me wrong Karl is a nice chap although I wouldn't describe him as young. The scheme in Ancoats is/will be far superior to anything H&S and Classic Homes have done to date but the question is will it still be good enough?

The Longford

March 2nd, 2006, 11:50 AM

We all need to start somewhere. If you will, ISA went from the quite standard Foyer in Brum to our Beetham.

Sadly H & S have been rubbish for ages! Ne'er mind.
Know what you saying b4mmy - i was talking to a lad who does Aldi's. I tried to say nice things about them but they are consistently shit - he is trying his best and deep down he knows they are shit but its not nice to say so to his face is it?

SleepyOne

March 3rd, 2006, 09:47 PM

077449/FO/2005/N1 27/10/2005 Former Bengal Mill Situated On The Junction Of Naval Street Bengal Street And Jersey Street Ancoats Erection of a mixed use development comprising 128 residential apartments 1916sqm commercial floorsp... Application Withdrawn

Application withdrawn? I liked the look of this scheme. Is Craig able to explain what's going on here?

The Longford

March 3rd, 2006, 10:51 PM

Remind me - was this the one with 'towers' at either end and town houses along Bengal Street?

Craig

March 6th, 2006, 02:11 PM

Longford - no its not that one I think you maybe think of the Artisan proposal for the other side of Bengal St.

Sleepy - its been withdrawn as it wouldn't have been given approval. It was primarily to do with the rear elevations. However revisions have been made and a fresh application submitted - Nikal are keen to get on with this one.

The Longford

March 6th, 2006, 02:14 PM

cheers craig!

SleepyOne

March 10th, 2006, 08:49 PM

Sleepy - its been withdrawn as it wouldn't have been given approval. It was primarily to do with the rear elevations. However revisions have been made and a fresh application submitted - Nikal are keen to get on with this one.
Thanks Craig, glad to hear it.

Looks like the relocation of the Embroiders Guild to Ancoats is back on the agenda...

078484/FO/2006/N1 13/02/2006 St Peters Blossom Street Ancoats

Erection of three storey extension following demolition of 9-13 Hood Street, to form ancillary space to exhibition centre and associated alterations.
Applicant's Name:
Embroiderers Guild

The Longford

March 10th, 2006, 10:37 PM

Ah - i love 9-13 Hood Street - proper old skool!

chasedwar

March 18th, 2006, 02:09 AM

here's a sneek preview ;) enjoy.... Online Realtime game is coming soon via the AUV website.

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d102/chasedwar/RealtimeGrab4.png

ManchesterISwonderful

March 18th, 2006, 01:52 PM

That reminds me. GTA Manchester, would be a great idea. Although, we did get a mention in the old one, thanks to Shaun Ryder. 'Looks just like Manchester'. 'It's like driving through Salford this', and 'it's just like driving through Chorlton'. or words to that effect.

Craig

March 20th, 2006, 03:07 PM

here's a sneek preview ;) enjoy.... Online Realtime game is coming soon via the AUV website.

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d102/chasedwar/RealtimeGrab4.png

Where did you get that from?

chasedwar

March 21st, 2006, 02:55 PM

How did I get pictures from within the Doka at the top of Beetham? ;)

Craig

March 21st, 2006, 06:04 PM

Hacking perchance?

highriser

March 21st, 2006, 09:21 PM

Took this pic today , noticed they were planting some mature trees around the new canal extentions,,

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0684_0001.jpg

By the way,,what development is going behind the old Ancoat's Hosp building? Is it Chip's ? if so groundwork as started

The Longford

March 21st, 2006, 09:37 PM

Its either the Simpson Ancoats hospital scheme or CHIPS depending exactly where it is lowriser.

SleepyOne

March 21st, 2006, 10:08 PM

The news from the Martin Stockley website indicated ground works for CHIPS started last year. See previous page.

The Longford

March 25th, 2006, 07:26 AM

Work starting on Isis i notice today.

jrb

March 26th, 2006, 12:51 AM

Approved.

Landmark illuminated chimney extension, Royal Mills, Ancoats.

077584/LO/2005/N1

Royal Mills
Jersey Street
Ancoats

LISTED BUILDING CONSENT - Installation of externally illuminated signage to chimney extension.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/royal.jpg

Sir Miles Platting

March 26th, 2006, 05:37 AM

Jeez, all we need is Monkey to see this. Lights on our chimneys... :runaway:

SleepyOne

March 27th, 2006, 11:04 PM

World's first industrial suburb wins national regeneration award

27/03/2006

A project to regenerate Ancoats in east Manchester, the world's first industrial suburb, has won a prestigious national regeneration award. The Ancoats Urban Village project was announced as the winner in the Area Based Regeneration category of the 2006 Waterways Renaissance Awards at an award ceremony in London last week. The Waterways Renaissance Awards were established by The Waterways Trust and the British Urban Regeneration Association (BURA) and are now in their fourth year.

The Ancoats Urban Village project, led by New East Manchester Ltd, is centred on a conservation area adjacent to the Rochdale Canal in central Manchester. The site has the greatest concentration of Grade II and II* buildings in the city. By redeveloping and refurbishing the Ancoats quarter New East Manchester Ltd has, with its partners, created an urban village on a formerly redundant brownfield site, providing major sustainable environmental, social and economic benefits for the wider area.

The judging panel noted: "This is an outstanding project in an outstanding area and the panel expects it to regenerate this area dramatically. The panel particularly liked the high proportion of apartments suitable for families, the sensitive reuse of historically important buildings and the encouragement of low environmental impact design and construction methods.

"The panel was also encouraged to see such progress in a city that has not previously had a strong track record in canalside development."

Robert Hough, Chairman of New East Manchester Ltd said: "Over the last seven years, Ancoats Urban Village Company, now part of New East Manchester Ltd., has worked tirelessly with its partners to breathe new life into this historic part of Manchester and we can now begin to witness the renaissance.

"New residents and businesses are moving into the refurbished mills and new developments creating a truly mixed use city quarter. The Ancoats Compulsory Purchase Order, undertaken by the NWDA at the request of New East Manchester, was the first CPO to be mounted by an RDA in the UK, and it is clearly paying dividends. We are really pleased to have our work recognised nationally in this way."

Steven Broomhead, NWDA Chief Executive, added: "The regeneration of Ancoats is a key priority for the NWDA and we have committed significant funding to revive East Manchester and transform it into one of the city's key assets.

"This prestigious award is a great recognition of the significant achievements that have been made by all partners involved in the area's redevelopment to drive forward its renaissance."

For more information visit www.neweastmanchester.com or www.auvc.co.uk.

..

highriser

April 4th, 2006, 08:30 PM

Had a wander around Ancoats this afternoon ,loads going on

This from behind the old Ancoat's Hospital
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0707.jpg
The new canal section that will be beside CHIPS
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0708.jpg

Heres where the canal section will end,,,is this building staying or going ?
It's behind the Hospital ???

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0712.jpg
And heres a new development that is just starting, it's just behind that little church in the centre of Ancoat's,,,anyone ??? i cant keep up with the stuff going on around here :)
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0714.jpg

b4mmy

April 4th, 2006, 09:05 PM

dgnr8

April 4th, 2006, 09:08 PM

Here you go Bammy. Good read it is too.

http://www.cybertrn.demon.co.uk/guardian/

b4mmy

April 4th, 2006, 09:10 PM

Here you go Bammy. Good read it is too.

http://www.cybertrn.demon.co.uk/guardian/

Are you causing trouble in Liverpool again d8? I'm there for you dude... I'm saving my 666 post for blubber. Thanks for the link!

dgnr8

April 4th, 2006, 09:14 PM

b4mmy

April 4th, 2006, 09:39 PM

I've no reason to cause any trouble like, I'm just bored of the shit SSC is filled with these days (note I include my own drivel in that) and wish to be as much of a dickhead as possible by telling whomever acts the cock that they are indeed a crudely drawn magenta cock with bells on.

Agreed d8. After I got to 4 or 500 posts I realised that, and decided to 'out' these damn scoundrels! Its a shame they get so nasty though... I'm always up for a scrap, but its not quite the same if you punch air....

Anyway thanks for the link again.

dgnr8

April 4th, 2006, 09:46 PM

No worries. Somebody else posted it bloody ages ago, but I've forgotten who so apologies to whomever that was.

Punch the air eh? Where's my Shutty cd...

chasedwar

April 4th, 2006, 10:03 PM

here's a sneek preview ;) enjoy.... Online Realtime game is coming soon via the AUV website.

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d102/chasedwar/RealtimeGrab4.png

the people avatars and sadly the audi will not be possible in the online realtime game. its coming soon, ive tested the demo, its fast too, so keep ur eyes peeled, especially u jrb ;)

The Longford

April 4th, 2006, 10:24 PM

I heard that the nuclear bunker was in Ancoats somewhere... is it under the old Stolen from Ivor or sumthin.... 'shanks? My ex went down there a few years ago, the only thing she went down in 10 years and it was a bloody bunker.

Surprise surprise!
Longknowitall wrote an article on it!

http://www.manchestercivic.org.uk/forum/30/F30_07.pdf

b4mmy

April 4th, 2006, 10:31 PM

bloody hell 'shanks you never cease to surprise me.

The Longford

April 4th, 2006, 10:41 PM

Me either!
If you fancy a day out:

http://www.hackgreen.co.uk/

Scare the shit out of yourself and it'll remind you of the bad old days in the 80's and the young master b4mmy might enjoy it too!

b4mmy

April 4th, 2006, 10:45 PM

Me either!
If you fancy a day out:

http://www.hackgreen.co.uk/

Scare the shit out of yourself and it'll remind you of the bad old days in the 80's and the young master b4mmy might enjoy it too!

Ha ha brilliant!!!! I think young s3bby would love it. I'll check it out!

Sir Miles Platting

April 4th, 2006, 11:34 PM

Agreed d8. After I got to 4 or 500 posts I realised that, and decided to 'out' these damn scoundrels! Its a shame they get so nasty though... I'm always up for a scrap, but its not quite the same if you punch air....

Anyway thanks for the link again.
I only visit the scouse forum if it mentions Manchester but this 'capital' one suckered me in. I know enough now to bite my lip and keep my distance. They seem to have attracted more than their fair share of knuckle-dragging posters who are evidently brain-washed, cannot construct sentences and clearly have IQ's lower than their shoe sizes.
I was ready to do a body-swerve until the prize prick John MK? started with the usual boring 'scouse is best at everything' drivel. Then he had the audacity to claim that Liverpool's 'history' was superior to ours!
I was tempted to remind him that Manchester was a Roman settlement when Liverpool didn't exist, only as an anonymous mud flat, but I resisted because you could tell that the 'sensible' scousers were cringeing at this twat who was in love with the sound of his own droning dull voice. They must be embarrassed as fuck when cunts like him keep chirping in with shite.
I feel sorry for them sometimes, but it's up to them to sort out their own maverick posters.
I suspect the 'MK' stands for Milton Keynes, which could explain things. ;)

Craig

April 5th, 2006, 11:56 AM

And heres a new development that is just starting, it's just behind that little church in the centre of Ancoat's,,,anyone ??? i cant keep up with the stuff going on around here :)
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0714.jpg

This ones the MBLC scheme.

highriser

April 5th, 2006, 07:09 PM

cheers craigo

highriser

April 8th, 2006, 12:39 PM

Another application for Ancoats

078859/FO/2006/N1 20/03/2006 Peary Street Off Rochdale Road Ancoats Mixed use scheme comprising the erection of a maximum 12 storey building to include 239 apartments, ... Application Pending Consider

jrb

April 18th, 2006, 11:18 AM

Another development for us to chew over.

Also gone in to the Ancoats thread.

078859/FO/2006/N1

Peary Street
Off Rochdale Road
Ancoats

Mixed use scheme comprising the erection of a maximum 12 storey building to include 239 apartments, fitness centre and nursery/creche with 230 car parking spaces with vehicular access from Bilbrook Street

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/tu6.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/tu4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/tu3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/tu1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/tu5.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/tu2.jpg

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?078859/FO/2006/N1

dgnr8

April 18th, 2006, 03:43 PM

Wythenshawe Civic Centre.

Mez

April 18th, 2006, 04:45 PM

hear hear. Nice and cosy next to the Police station.

jrb

May 4th, 2006, 01:22 PM

skymann

May 4th, 2006, 02:42 PM

Revised application.

Wheatley Properties Ltd

West Properties

079201/FO/2006/N1

10 Rochdale Road
Ancoats
Manchester

Revisions to planning permission 073047/FO/2004/N1, namely elevational alterations to proposed building

Original application.

073047/FO/2004/N1

No. 10 Rochdale Road/45 Goulden Street And 56 And 46 Marshall Street (Including County Records Office)
Ancoats

Erection of 21 storey building (decreasing to 5 storeys along Mason Street) incorporating 182 residential units, and commercial use at ground floor level (class A1 and B1). Provision of 225 car parking spaces at basement level

21 storey building - that's good news. Wonder how they'll incorporate the Gtr Mcr County Records Office? Does anyone know if it is listed? I know the archives are moving to Swan Street, but don't know what they intended to do with the old building - would this be converted to residential as well?

Farsight

May 4th, 2006, 03:29 PM

They'll probably incorporate it into the foundations.

As rubble.

LOL!

Accura4Matalan

May 4th, 2006, 06:35 PM

Thats Skyline Central isnt it? Just a modified app.

SleepyOne

May 4th, 2006, 09:31 PM

Yes it is skyline central. Could someone be kind enough to download and post the relevant part of the planning application as I want to find out exactly what West Properties are up to here. I hope it doesn't mean cheaper / inferior facade.

highriser

May 17th, 2006, 08:11 PM

Steelwork as started to go up for that building next to the Express .

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0813.jpg

Craig

May 18th, 2006, 05:42 PM

rolybling

May 18th, 2006, 06:23 PM

thanks Craig, nice to see a bit of a mixture

skymann

May 18th, 2006, 07:15 PM

Revised 47 Bengal st scheme now in for planning:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v225/Traffordcraig/47Bengal7JerseyStview.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v225/Traffordcraig/47Bengal3LoomStview.jpg

I like that. There are some great apartment bdlgs going up in Ancoats, New Islington and the N/4.

frozenmusic

May 18th, 2006, 08:02 PM

cripey, they caught some sort of bondage session going on on the fourth floor. That reminds me, I once let an apartment in Paris that had a strange wooden and rope contraption attached to the ceiling above the bed. Never quite worked out what it was but I named it ‘the immoralizer’ after Andre Gide. Bet you really, really wanted to know that.

rolybling

May 18th, 2006, 08:08 PM

^^LOL

Lifting weights no? as for the next window along..WWF comes to Ancoats?

The Longford

May 18th, 2006, 08:18 PM

What the little old lady on the 4th floor thinks of it all i dont know!
And why the two little girls in the lobby are wearing "Dont Look Now/ The Shining" like cloaks - god only knows!
Welcome to Ancoats.

Legin

May 18th, 2006, 08:27 PM

Steelwork as started to go up for that building next to the Express .

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y12/ANTEATPETE/100_0813.jpg

Nice pic Highriser and for your trouble here's the website
http://artisangroup.co.uk

SleepyOne

May 18th, 2006, 10:07 PM

Thanks very much for that, Craig.

Here is the image of the original scheme posted a few pages back.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v225/Traffordcraig/Bengalmill2.jpg

....... compared to the new proposal.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v225/Traffordcraig/47Bengal7JerseyStview.jpg

Im not altogether sure Im happy with the amendments. They have neutered what was a strong and attractive corner block by reducing its height by one floor and taking away some of the white frontage and long corner balconies which emphasised the building's lovely sleek lines. What the hell is that horrible grey cladding that has been inserted too? Also the block to the rear has been amended by inserting a taller, thinner building into the original. I think I prefer the mix of heights and shapes here but they have destroyed that attractive line of rectangular windows to the street level so, overall no improvement.

Overall its still a decent proposal but I wish the planners hadn't seen fit to faff around unnecessarily with what was a very strong and attractive design.

rolybling

May 18th, 2006, 10:14 PM

It's just a render sleepyness, it may not have changed as drastic as you think..I like it anyway.

SleepyOne

May 18th, 2006, 10:25 PM

Im afraid it has been amended because the original scheme was withdrawn back in March. See also these quotes from Craig.

Its anticipated that this scheme will alter somewhat as a result of the planning process so don't fall in love with it too much

Sleepy - its been withdrawn as it wouldn't have been given approval. It was primarily to do with the rear elevations. However revisions have been made and a fresh application submitted - Nikal are keen to get on with this one.

They've amended more than the rear elevations! Does anyone think the new version is better (based on a superficial assesment of the above renders) because I don't. Its been neutered! Stupid fucking planners.

Mez

May 18th, 2006, 10:47 PM

Does anyone have a link/pic of the old design? muchos ta

Jongeman

May 18th, 2006, 10:57 PM

They've amended more than the rear elevations! Does anyone think the new version is better (based on a superficial assesment of the above renders) because I don't. Its been neutered! Stupid fucking planners.

This has got to be bad to get you swearin' and that!! I'm with you on this one Sleepy, the original is much better.

The Longford

May 18th, 2006, 11:17 PM

I'm easy either way but if i was to choose (which i already have having seen the first scheme and raised some concerns so i'm afraid i am part of the 'stupid fucking planners' who you blame for the compromise) i would go for the first design.
I'd have to look back at the minutes of the meeting where we saw this but i think massing and materials were a concern (not mine i might add) and its up to the architects to solve them elegantly so you cant blame the planners for the loss of some of the original designs panache. I think the first design is more 'pure' but i dont think the new one is bad as such.
I think they are both quite good to be honest andi would only choose the first one because i dont like the grey building on the new one.

SleepyOne

May 18th, 2006, 11:27 PM

Its the corner block Im most upset about to be honest.

The reduction in height together with the neutering of the lovely horizontal white bands both suggest some sort of request on behalf of the planning department to make the building appear subservient (or not "overwhelm") the adjoining histoic buildings. In my opinion, all they have done, on the evidence of this new render is compromise the elegance and integrity of the new build although I take your point about architechts needing to respond adequately to such reqests.

I admit I do not have an in depth knowledge of all of the surrounding context and I do still think it has the potential to be a good scheme but compared to the original, its a bit of a disappointment.

The Longford

May 18th, 2006, 11:43 PM

I think there are elements from both designs that i like and i think the original one was a bit 'miserly' and a higher floor-ceiling height on the new design can only be a good thing. However the original design was a bit more austere and clearer and the new design is got too fussy for some reason.
Dont be too harsh on the Conservation and Urban design boys and girls - there are just trying to uphold the integrity of Ancoats which, in the bigger scheme of things, is more important than some two bit resi scheme.

Jongeman

May 18th, 2006, 11:50 PM

At this rate, we're looking at a Heritage Nazi War Crimes Tribunal :)

I'm not totally averse to the new design either but the loss of one storey doesn't help it, and the 10 storey box-with-balconies bit to the left isn't particularly inspired, n'est-ce pas?

It is a two bit resi scheme, but there's always an opportunity to provide the right design... Not being too harsh on Conservation bods really. Integrity of Ancoats is important.

jrb

May 19th, 2006, 08:37 PM

Again from last year. May not have been seen?

Site search for temple to kick off ‘Thai town’

The Thai Culture Forum UK and Institute of Thai Arts and Culture has instructed Beesley Thompson to acquire a site in Manchester for the development of a Thai Buddhist Temple and Thai Plaza.

The temple will be the largest outside London and is the first stage in the development of a ‘Thai town’.

Funding would be provided by the Thai government, army and Thailand-based companies.

Sites in the Northern Quarter, Ancoats and surrounding areas are being considered for the development, which would include restaurants, a community centre and a supermarket.

The temple would form the cornerstone of the proposed 40,000 sq ft (3,716 sq m) project.

A prelet Thai restaurant and cash-and-carry store would accompany the temple and further Thai investment is expected to fund the rest of the development.

Later stages could include a Thai cinema, sports development centre, and school of Thai culture.

The long-term plan is for an ancillary trading estate to be set up to invest in, provide and distribute Thai products throughout the UK and continental Europe.

highriser

May 19th, 2006, 08:48 PM

Theres an article in tonight MEN saying an application will be going in soon for an extention to St Peter's church in Ancoat's , in which it will house the National Embroidary Centre

The Longford

May 19th, 2006, 08:50 PM

Theres an article in tonight MEN saying an application will be going in soon for an extention to St Peter's church in Ancoat's , in which it will house the National Embroidary Centre

Seen it! Do you want the reference number so you can look it up?

rolybling

May 19th, 2006, 08:59 PM