Public consultation launched on huge Manchester city centre student accommodation
A public consultation has launched on proposals to transform the vacant Charles Street Car Park in Manchester city centre into a student accommodation development.
The project from RG Real Estate - part of the RG Group - forms part of the emerging Sister innovation district and neighbourhood.
Sister aims to transform The University of Manchester's former North Campus into a hub for business innovation, learning, living and collaboration. The redevelopment is underway, anchored by the Renold Innovation Hub, which opened in autumn 2024.
The Charles Street site – known as Zone H in the masterplan – represents a key western gateway into Sister. Currently an underused area, its regeneration is essential to creating a welcoming entrance to the district and strengthening its links to the wider city centre.
Introducing a new student community is expected to increase footfall, support local businesses and add to the district's daytime and evening vitality.
The Sister joint venture partners – Bruntwood SciTech and The University of Manchester – have appointed RG Real Estate to develop Zone H.
Proposals include a striking building comprising eight-, ten- and 38-storey elements. It would feature about 1,041 study bedrooms, including a mix of studios and six-bed cluster apartments.
The plans also include amenity spaces such as study zones, lounges and social rooms to foster community life, flexible commercial space on the ground floor, and public realm enhancements including a new public green space – Princess Square – alongside improvements to Charles Street and Altrincham Street.
Darren Simmons of RG Real Estate, said: "We're delighted to unveil our proposals for Charles Street. This is one of the best locations in the city for PBSA: close to campuses of both The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, with city centre amenities on the doorstep.
"There is a sustained high demand for high-quality student accommodation in this part of the city centre and our proposal will help to address the undersupply; ensuring that Manchester can continue its growth and success.
"This development marks an important milestone for RG Real Estate and it is fantastic to be recognised as the partner of choice by The University and Bruntwood SciTech. We look forward to working with them and other local stakeholders to realise this vision."