Manchester City Council, in collaboration with Homes England and GMCA, is spearheading a new initiative to shape the future of Holt Town’s regeneration. The competition, launched in October 2023, has garnered global interest and a variety of top-notch proposals.
The victorious entry displayed a dynamic and innovative strategy for revitalising the area, backed by a proven track record in Manchester’s development and planning scene – aligning closely with the Council’s vision.
Studio Egret West will lead a diverse team including Deloitte, MVRDV, Turley, AKT II, Hilson Moran, Deetu, and Hatch, bringing a mix of local, national, and international expertise to the project.
Holt Town, situated strategically between the city centre and the thriving East Manchester investment zone, is poised to become one of Manchester’s most promising regeneration projects. Covering 30 hectares of former industrial land, the plan aims to transform the area into a sustainable, digitally-driven new town with space for approximately 4,500 new homes.
The vision includes ample green public areas and cutting-edge designs for future living, prioritising health and well-being principles and introducing new active travel routes. With employment opportunities nearby and its own Metrolink station, Holt Town is positioned to attract more residents as Manchester expands its housing options and economic prospects.
The regeneration scheme will honour the area’s historical waterways while embracing a modern, forward-thinking ethos. The draft plan is set to be unveiled in the coming months, followed by public consultation later this year.
The Holt Town project will take centre stage at the Manchester stand during the upcoming MIPIM conference on Tuesday 12 March.
Leader of Manchester City Council, Bev Craig, expressed her excitement for the potential of Holt Town’s regeneration, highlighting the opportunity to create a vibrant new community that celebrates the area’s heritage while embracing digital innovation, affordable housing, and sustainability.
David West, Founding Director of Studio Egret West, shared his team’s enthusiasm for the project, pledging to bring a fresh perspective to the challenge of developing a ‘town within the city’ and championing a collaborative neighbourhood framework.
