Plans unveiled to build Manchester’s tallest ever Skyscraper

Plans have been revealed to build a new 76-storey skyscraper featuring 780 apartments next to the Deansgate Square apartment buildings. 

It is to be named the Viadux Phase Two tower and is set to start construction following the first phase if approved.  

The first phase 40-storey tower is about to be finished on the former Baeur Millet showroom by Deansgate-Castlefield tram stop and behind Manchester Central. 

Developers Salboy and Domis construction state the 76 tower development will provide 900 new spaces, including 130 affordable apartments.  

‘Deliver a neighbourhood of high quality, design-led homes that meet Manchester’s substantial need for accommodation at a range of price points and tenure types’

Simon Ismail, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Salboy

Co-founder and managing director of Salboy, Simon Ismail, said: “We are excited to reveal new plans that will complete the Viadux masterplan and deliver a neighbourhood of high quality, design-led homes that meet Manchester’s substantial need for accommodation at a range of price points and tenure types.”

Plans for homes

It comes following Salboy’s original plan to have offices in the building, which they have swapped for more homes. This will no doubt come as a relief for those who originally criticised the business-orientated model.

In a statement, Salboy said: “Phase Two provides the opportunity to deliver new affordable homes to the city centre’s housing offer, together with commercial spaces to support the city’s economic growth.” 

Along with accessible transport links directly next to the towers, new public spaces are also part of the plans, which according to Salboy will create “a safer and more efficient pedestrian route into the city.” 

Regarding the affordable housing, Deansgate Councillor Marcus Johns, said: “I am pleased to see within these proposals commitment to build a block of around 130 affordable homes. I have been clear that those must be truly affordable at the Manchester Living Rent level, not the Government’s bogus definition.”

A drop in event took place in December to further discuss the plans at 53Two on Watson Street. Representatives from Salboy were present for enquiries about the construction as well as what is to be offered in the new building. The plans were also available to view at the event. 

‘The revised Viadux scheme activates a site that would otherwise be unused and forgotten in the city’

Benjamin Ashcroft, Salboy Spokesperson

The revised plans for phase 2 of the Viadux scheme are currently in early stages of a public consultation. Their plan is to submit a planning application during 2024.

Salboy Spokesperson, Benjamin Ashcroft said: “The revised Viadux scheme activates a site that would otherwise be unused and forgotten in the city. Opening up Great Bridgewater Street and activating these areas commercially.  Bringing forward the city centre’s first purpose-built affordable housing and a new connection between the Deansgate-Castlefield metro station and the city. While creating a landmark that redefines central Manchester.”

Reaction

The Viadux Two tower plans to dwarf the Beetham Tower, currently the tallest skyscraper in Manchester.

The plans are facing mixed reactions on social media with one user on instagram, saying “build real homes for people, not high rise eyesores.”

Members of the public have questioned the ‘community’ rhetoric given there are only 130 affordable apartments out of 780 planning to be built.

However, many others have expressed their excitement on Twitter while praising phase one, saying “they are stunning” to look at.