Farrells appointed as masterplanners for Northern Gateway scheme

 

International design and architecture practice, Farrells, has been appointed to masterplan the Northern Gateway in Manchester. A pioneering investment partnership between developer Far East Consortium (FEC) and Manchester City Council, the scheme will provide more than 10,000 new homes across northern Manchester over the next decade.

The selection of Farrells reflects the strategic importance of the landmark scheme which is set to generate more than £1 billion of investment over the next decade. This is due to be achieved by unlocking the residential development potential of more than 300 acres of land north of Victoria station, through the neighbourhoods of New Cross, Lower Irk Valley and Collyhurst.

Farrells will place an emphasis on design quality, sustainability, open space, reactivating the vicinity of the River Irk, and enhancing public transport infrastructure which will include green walking trails and cycling routes. In doing so, Northern Gateway will allow Manchester city centre to expand northwards by providing an optimal mix of high-quality housing in well-planned new areas.

The over-arching vision of the scheme is to create a series of distinct yet clearly connected communities. This approach will maximise the area’s hidden and often ignored natural resources as well as its prime location close to Manchester city centre.

Gavin Taylor, regional general manager of Far East Consortium, said: “We are proud to be working closely with Manchester City Council to deliver the vision for the Northern Gateway. At FEC, our aim is to create communities for future generations and this is made possible by building strategic partnerships and working with highly experienced, globally renowned firms.

“We are delighted to welcome Farrells on board as masterplanners. Renowned for its role in the delivery of landmark schemes worldwide, the consultancy brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge to deliver the vision for a new destination in Manchester.”

Sir Terry Farrell, Founder of Farrells commented: “We are thrilled to be working with FEC and MCC to create this new landmark scheme which will be a big step forward for Manchester’s ongoing regeneration. We’ll be sitting literally side by side in our co-located offices, making sure it works for the city, the region and those behind the investment.”

“Through its sheer scale and incredible natural, heritage and community assets, the Northern Gateway will play a significant part in enhancing Manchester’s presence nationally and globally. We will be making an amazing new place where people love to be, so watch this space.”

Cllr Bernard Priest, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said: “This is an important milestone and marks the start of more detailed consultations on how we transform this part of the city with new neighbourhoods to make sure we can meet a significant demand for world-class housing. The city continues to grow and expand and we will be talking to existing residents, business and other stakeholders about our shared vision and ambition.”

Masterplanners from Farrells will join the FEC team at its new project office in the Northern Assurance Buildings overlooking Albert Square in central Manchester.

Also appointed to Northern Gateway are planning consultancy HOW, landscape architect Planit IE, engineering, transport, remediation and sustainability specialist Arup and cost consultant Turner & Townsend.

FEC is playing a major role in the transformation of northern Manchester and recently launched MeadowSide, a landmark scheme of 756 apartments, penthouses and townhouses bordering Angel Meadow Park, Manchester’s largest green space and part of the 20-acre NOMA neighbourhood north of the city centre.

19 December 2017