Plans to transform the former Chorlton Cross Shopping Centre into a new destination to live and shop have been approved by Manchester City Council.

Brought forward by Manchester-based PJ Livesey, in partnership with the Greater Manchester Pension Fund, the plans will create a diverse mix of homes and revitalised retail spaces that will create a new beating heart for the community.

Following consultation during 2023, the developer made several changes to the plans, responding to feedback from the local community.

The approved proposals include:

262 one-, two- and three-bed apartments, all with access to outdoor space through balconies and gardens
20 per cent affordable homes available through a mix of tenures, with 18.5 per cent of these being available for social rent
About 37,000 sq ft of public open space, including a fully walkable route through Manchester Road and outdoor seating areas to encourage people to stop and dwell
A mix of flexible retail spaces including a new ‘Makers Yard’ suitable for smaller, start-up businesses
Up to 60 new trees across the site with maximised retention of existing trees

Georgina Lynch, managing director at PJ Livesey, said: "This is a landmark moment for Chorlton, marking the transformation of the former shopping centre into a vibrant new hub for the community.

“Working closely with Manchester City Council, we’ve carefully balanced the delivery of much-needed new homes — including 20% affordable — with the creation of lively, welcoming spaces to shop, relax, and spend time. This site is at the heart of Chorlton, and we’re bringing it back to life, cementing the area’s reputation as a truly great place to live.”

PJ Livesey is now eyeing a start-on-site date in early 2026 which will initially involve the decommissioning and demolition of all existing buildings, including Graeme House.

As property advisors to the Greater Manchester Pension Fund, Colin Thomasson, Executive Director at CBRE, said: “We are delighted to reach this significant milestone in the Chorlton project. GMPF has worked closely with their development partners PJ Livesey and Southway Housing Trust, to design 262 high quality new homes, with 20% of the homes being affordable.

“The development will also deliver new retail spaces, including a Makers Yard, along with high quality green spaces and public realm. Initial works, including the building strip out and asbestos removal have already been completed, and we look forward to commencing construction in the New Year.

“This project is GMPF’s latest investment in the residential sector, helping to bring forward much needed new homes in Greater Manchester.”

Jonathan Turner, Southway Housing Trust’s Assistant Director for Development said: “We’re proud to collaborate with partners to make homes for social rent part of this exciting new mixed-use development in the heart of Chorlton.

“There is a real shortage of affordable housing in Chorlton, especially smaller homes so these new one and two-bed apartments will be easier for residents to maintain and will help free up larger properties for families in need.”