Proposed demolition of Charles Street Car Park

The plans for Sister have been picking up pace over the last two years, with the approval of the ID Manchester Strategic Regeneration Framework in December 2023, followed by the opening of the Renold Building as a new innovation hub last year.

Earlier this year, we submitted a planning application for two new office buildings in the northeast corner of the Sister site, facing London Road and Altrincham Street, together with a new public square.

Building on this recent progress, plans are now progressing for the regeneration of another part of the Sister site. “Plot H” of the Sister framework area includes the Charles Street Car Park, which closed last year, and the associated retail and bar premises.

To prepare the site for future development, Sister has submitted a planning application for the demolition of the car park and the associated commercial units. At this stage, the planning application will be for demolition only and does not include any plans for future development.

The preparation of our planning application has involved a set of technical assessments, considering the potential impact on noise, air quality, traffic and outlook on local residents and businesses during the demolition works.

If the planning application for the demolition is approved, works are expected to commence towards the end of this year – indicatively around November – and last for around 20 weeks. Works will be restricted to normal working hours.

A letter has been sent to local residents with information about the planning application for demolition works. Subject to approval and ahead of the start of the demolition works on site, Sister will write to residents again to introduce the chosen demolition contractor and provide more information about the programme of works. Residents will be provided with a direct contact so that any on-site issues can be raised and resolved immediately.

Looking to the longer term, the full redevelopment of this site will be brought forward by a development partner. We anticipate introducing this new partner and starting a comprehensive process of community consultation later this year.