New 15-storey Manchester city centre tower block for student homes planned on site of former car park

A new 15-storey tower block with over 100 student homes could soon be built in Manchester’s Oxford Road corridor.

On the former site of a small car park between a railway viaduct and Charles Street, the proposals include 107 studio bedrooms, which applicant Jadebricks believes will complement the current vibrant mix of uses within this part of the city centre. Plans, designed by SimpsonHaugh include study and amenity spaces within the complex. 

Study areas may allow for work as individuals and groups and the social areas may allow table games, gaming, movie screening, general socialising and dining as a group. According to planning documents, the size of each unit will vary between 18.1sqm for a standard studio, with larger studios ranging between 19.3 and 25.5 sqm. It is expected that the affordable rent rooms will be offered to any student in full-time education at a Manchester university or higher education institution on a full maintenance loan.

The rooms offered at affordable rent will be of the same size as all other rooms offered to ensure that all residents are treated equally. The proposed development provides 28 secure cycle parking spaces but no official car parking spaces. Access for the site will come from the corner between Charles Street and York Street.

Stephen Bell, Chief Executive at Turley, the business involved in the planning process, said: “Demand for well-managed, high-quality student accommodation in Manchester far outstrips supply, and so, we’re delighted to have submitted the application for Charles Street which will address a long-standing need in the city. Not only does dedicated student accommodation enhance the student experience, providing opportunities for community and social interaction, it also eases the pressure on local housing across Manchester.”

Jadebricks managing director, Mike Bathurst added: “Jadebricks are delighted to be able to bring forward a building of truly outstanding design quality to this vibrant and exciting part of the city centre. The location is ideally suited for student accommodation, being on the Oxford Road Corridor and within a few minutes’ walk of both university campuses.”

Consultation on the plans is expected to end on Thursday, January 18, 2024.