Manchester City Council has launched a consultation on the ambitious plans for Holt Town, a new development poised to transform a 74-acre brownfield site between the city centre and Etihad Campus. This project, featuring up to 4,500 new homes, is expected to bring a significant boost to Manchester’s economy and offer a blend of residential, commercial, and green spaces.

The Holt Town Neighbourhood Development Framework, designed by Studio Egret West, envisions a “new town” that includes 15 acres of green space and 322,900 sq ft of commercial area. The proposals, which also feature a one-kilometre play link for children and a landmark building of up to 35 storeys, aim to enhance the green credentials of the area with improved active travel routes. The consultation will run until 29 September and is accessible at holttownwoodtown.com.

The development includes a variety of housing options, from low-rise homes to converted mills and taller buildings, with a commitment to affordable housing. The commercial aspect is set to feature four eight-storey buildings and up to 50 new shops, bars, and restaurants. The project is projected to support around 1,500 new jobs and could deliver a £230 million boost to the Greater Manchester economy, with an annual GVA increase of £100 million once operational.

Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and development, said: “We have big ambitions for Holt Town and it’s not an exaggeration when we say we are creating a new town in our city, transforming an underused part of our city centre to create a new community, thousands of new homes, new commercial space and new jobs – all within a sustainable, green and safe neighbourhood.  

“As ever, we need the insight from local people to feed into our long-term vision. Feedback from local people is really important as it helps guide our investment in neighbourhoods, with perspective from the people who know the area well.  

“It’s easy to take part online – or drop-in to one of our in-person events. We look forward to seeing you.” Was this page helpful?

The Holt Town project will be a topic of interest at upcoming property construction conferences and investment events in Manchester, likely drawing attention from property investors and developers looking to engage with one of the city’s largest regeneration efforts. The next version of the Neighbourhood Development Framework, informed by this consultation, is set to be published in early 2025.

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