Manchester City Council has issued decision notices for five new skyscrapers with more than 2,300 flats, two years after planning approval was signed off in 2024. The towers, developed by Manchester property giant Renaker, are based on Great Jackson Street near Deansgate.
Tallest tower to reach 71 storeys
The largest tower, called Plot D, will be 71 storeys tall at 213 metres (698 ft). Four other buildings will be built on land known as Plot C and Plot E, with two at 47 storeys and two at 51 storeys.
None of the new towers will include any 'affordable' housing, which are properties priced below market rates. The towers fall into an area designated for major changes, with the council having previously created a regeneration masterplan for the 'strategically positioned' corner of the city centre.
Design and previous development
Renaker has already developed in the area, including the luxury Deansgate Square towers. The firm's new Plot D skyscraper will be designed around a 'lighthouse' concept with a 'lantern' at the top of the building and a public restaurant at the uppermost level.
The projects were supported by Manchester council's planning committee in 2024 despite concerns around the lack of affordable housing. At the time, Lib Dem Councillor Richard Kilpatrick said: "It will be the skyline of the city. It will define what the city looks like for future generations," adding: "The area I find hardest to understand is the lack of affordable housing element or section 106."
Jobs and legal background
Renaker's agent at the 2024 planning meeting, John Cooper, said the schemes would create 923 construction jobs, and a further 133 roles once the towers are completed. He added the buildings would 'be market leading design and quality'.
The decision to approve the towers comes just months after a court dismissed claims by city centre landowner Aubrey Weis about £140m of public loans paid to Renaker from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. The case was heard in the Court of Appeal on June 9 and 10 over cash which was put towards two of Renaker's high-rise developments in Manchester city centre, known as Trinity Islands and New Jackson. A judgement issued on June 29 by Lord Justice Zacaroli, with agreement from Lord Justice Nugee and Lord Justice Miles, found the GMCA loans to Renaker 'did not constitute a subsidy'.
