Following the last consultation in September 2023, a decision was made to pause the project and review the scheme designs following feedback and to look at the scheme’s viability.
Over the last 18 months we have:
- Reviewed your feedback and updated the designs accordingly
- Appraised the schemes financial viability
- Explored the current and future funding environment
- Met regularly with MCC to discuss the brief and legal position on acquisition of sites
- Continued to work in partnership with MCC and the WISSC
Because of the above a decision has been made to prioritise Site 1: The Reno, in terms of designs and consultation at the moment.
Our updated proposals address key concerns, such as reduced building heights and density, family-oriented housing, parking provision, and enhancements to green spaces.
You Said, We did:
Project scale and density - Height and size of the scheme.
Site 1 plans now show 213 homes (128 social rent and 85 Rent-to-Buy). The highest block of apartments being 10 storey, reducing down to 6,5 and 3. The site is located along Princess Parkway and across from The Brewery - and is therefore designated by Manchester City Council (MCC) as a gateway to the city centre. Whilst we recognise some local concerns about density, this approach aligns planning policy and MCC brief, and will provide more affordable and larger homes.
Multi-generational family housing - How people and families want to live.
This development aims to address two significant challenges in Moss Side: under-occupation and overcrowding. MSV are providing a range of accommodation from 1 bed through to 5 bed properties. In addition, we have included a designated older persons scheme and a number of homes across the scheme as accessible.
By tackling these issues, we aim to provide appropriate housing solutions for local residents.
Noise Concerns and the Future of WISSC
The West Indian Sports & Social Club (WISSC) plays a vital role in the community. On site 1,
any noise concerns from the immediate area surrounding the site are being mitigated through design and specification. Sites 2 and 3 are on hold, we will continue to work with the WISSC on noise concerns on these sites.
Manchester City Council and MSV are committed to a long-lasting relationship with the WISSC, including a memorandum of understanding, and we are supporting the improvement of the WISSC building through social value contributions from MSV contractors.
Local Culture
Community cohesion and cultural heritage are essential aspects of the development. Efforts are underway to incorporate local art and cultural elements into the design to reflect the identity of Moss Side.
We want to celebrate the local heritage at site 1 and would love to hear your suggestions and
ideas on how best to achieve this. Please take a moment to complete our short engagement survey.
Adult Learning Centre
Feedback highlighted the continued need for the Adult Learning Centre. This site is no longer part of the development of new homes.
Lettings
As a result of your feedback, MSV has strongly committed to a Local Lettings Policy.
Parking
MSV acknowledges that parking remains a significant concern for residents and are working with MCC to explore solutions. Our proposed scheme for site 1 complies with MCC Planning Requirements, providing parking for 30% of homes, alongside other sustainable transport options such as cycling and bus journeys.
Recognising the ongoing pressures in the area, MCC is also considering additional measures, including the potential use of vacant land next to the WISSC for temporary event parking while site 2 is paused.
Landscaping & External Community Amenity
Residents have emphasised the importance of communal green spaces. MSV is committed to including outdoor areas that provide a balance between living spaces and community use.
All traditional and larger homes have their own gardens, each block has a private roof garden, and the site will be open access for the community.
We are working with Sow The City on how to improve green spaces across Moss Side, not just the new development. Sow the City delivered a project to map existing green spaces and consult with local people to develop a plan to green the neighbourhood. Read the full report The Nature of Moss Side.
The Engagement Survey is an opportunity to let MSV have your views on this.
Health
Manchester City Council (MCC) is working with health colleagues and the NHS to understand current capacity within health provision in the area and how the new homes will impact this. We are committed to ensuring that the increase in the number of homes is matched by investment in accompanying infrastructure
These concerns were discussed in detail at the Steering Group Meeting in November 2024, the presentation from this meeting gives additional details and can be accessed here: Steering Group Report - November 2024
