FORE Partnership has submitted a planning application to transform 24 Mount Street into 80,000 sq ft of Grade A office space.
The proposal sees the building redeveloped into high quality, sustainable offices with retail and leisure outlets, a roof terrace and improvements to the public realm.
In submitting the planning application, real estate investment firm FORE say they have come up with an authentic and distinctive design solution which is fitting to its key location facing Manchester Central Plaza in the Civic Quarter. FORE’s philosophy of responsible real estate is intrinsic to the ethos of the building.
Working with architects tp bennett, care has been taken to select materials that are contemporary but also take their cue from the surrounding area. A new ornamental façade, incorporating terracotta glazed tiling and glass, will replace the existing brickwork.
The redeveloped building will complete the urban city block, re-establish the historical footprint of the former warehouse and form a vibrant civic frontage to the public plaza.
The proposal includes:
· Seven floors of accommodation – ground and first floor retail/leisure and flexible workspace, and five floors of office accommodation above
· Amenity space on the first floor with a balcony overlooking the plaza
· A roof terrace
· A rich, detailed façade incorporating equal proportions of glazing and decorative terracotta
· Curved corner façade at the Mount Street / Windmill Street junction
· Feature staircase to connect ground and first floor
Basil Demeroutis, Managing Partner of FORE, said: “We have a duty to create a sustainable building that works in harmony with the surrounding buildings and open spaces, ultimately enhancing the vibrancy and energy of this key area in the city centre.
“The elevation takes a new twist on modern design, using authentic decorative materials in a way that defines character and style, not simply repeating what has been done elsewhere.
“This focus on craftsmanship, combined with truly trendsetting approaches to sustainability and to creating a highly flexible and adaptive workspace, sets the building’s sights squarely towards the future.”
Mark Barker, Director at tp bennett, added: “The team is committed to delivering a high-quality, innovative building and for this project there were three clear objectives: sustainability leadership, wellbeing and end-user flexibility.
“Once complete, the building will achieve BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings and provide occupiers with state-of-the-art office facilities whilst maintaining aesthetic appeal, making this a significant addition to Manchester’s growing commercial stock.”
FORE also believes the successful redevelopment of 24 Mount Street will make a major contribution to economic growth and will act as a significant catalyst to the wider regeneration of this area.
As a first step in this regeneration, FORE is currently working with innovative social enterprise 3Space to offer 24 Mount Street as a collaborative workspace to local artists, charities and community groups. The temporary use of the building strengthens links with the creative community and the city, enhancing the vibrancy and energy of this key area.
Mr Demeroutis added: “We are proud to be part of this fantastic opportunity to redevelop and regenerate an out-moded and underutilised 1970s office building, bringing highly needed office space to the market very quickly.”
Knight Frank and LSH are acting as joint agents for 24 Mount Street, while Deloitte are advising on planning.
