Working alongside architects Hawkins\Brown and landscape architects Planit.IE, we are the structural, civil and transport engineers for developer General Projects for this  creative workplace development in New Islington, Manchester.  The development site covers just under 2 hectares. 

Subject to approval from Manchester City Council, General Projects’ first development in the city will create an inclusive, modern, innovative and sustainable commercial destination. The five building campus will set a new standard for social impact in the city, with nearly £8m of social value set to be generated for the local community over a five year period. 

Located alongside the Ashton Canal and inspired by the city’s historic cotton and textile mills, the development will deliver over two acres of new, exceptional public space, as the area benefits from a £5m investment Into landscape and green space to create a better, healthier and safer environment.

The sustainable credentials will be underpinned by its car free policy, low carbon transport links, water sensitive urban design, and an innovative low-carbon approach to construction and operation. Over 50 new trees will be planted on site and 550 bike spaces will be provided as the development delivers a 30% net gain in biodiversity.

Jacob Loftus, Founder and CEO of General Projects said: “We are thrilled and excited to be bringing our plans for Pollard Street forward. 

“We have been eager to work in Manchester for a long time and while we know the pandemic will bring challenges for the local economy in the short term, it remains a city alive with an extraordinary buzz of enterprise, innovation and culture. 

“At Pollard Street we see the opportunity to do something unique and with a very significant social impact to really drive the recovery forward by creating new opportunities for start-ups, entrepreneurs and local people.

“We hope to set a new benchmark for delivering transformative social value through the built environment.  We’re currently liaising with Manchester City Council and other local partners in order to ensure every aspect of the scheme helps support the local area, whether that’s through job creation or improving the local environment.