The ambitious redevelopment plans for Octagon House in Manchester are being spearheaded by architect firm Hodder + Partners. This project aims to transform a three-acre plot located at the intersection of Hathersage Road and Carmoor Road into a vibrant residential community comprising approximately 700 homes. The landowner, Richard Everton, envisions a scheme that includes the preservation of the existing 100,000 sq ft Octagon House, which has a history as the former headquarters of the electricity provider Norweb and currently houses the NHS Renal Services centre. It is expected that this vital health service will continue to operate on-site during and after the redevelopment.
The Vision for Octagon House
According to early feasibility studies conducted by the project team, the site is projected to accommodate around 693 homes. This will include 456 units designated for students and 239 units intended for core services workers. A spokesperson for the initiative articulated the goal, stating, “Octagon House is an opportunity to create a more active, better used, and more positive part of this neighbourhood.” They emphasised the importance of engaging with local residents throughout the planning process, aiming to foster a genuine mix of inhabitants and establish a year-round community that contributes to the broader regeneration of the area.
Community Engagement and Development Timeline
To facilitate community input, a consultation website has been launched, allowing interested parties to express their views on the proposed plans. If the project receives the necessary planning approvals, construction is anticipated to commence in the summer of 2027, with a target completion date set for August 2029. Richard Everton has enlisted Turley to provide guidance on planning matters, while Ridge serves as the structural engineer. Project management is being handled by Warrington Martin, with Keeble Brown leading the public consultation efforts.
Context within the Local PBSA Market
This initiative is not an isolated case within the Manchester PBSA landscape. In 2024, Empiric Student Property received consent for a nearby project named Victoria Point, which aims to expand its current student accommodation offerings. This development will see an increase of 310 beds, bringing the total to 876 bed spaces spread across 694 units. Such developments underscore the growing demand for purpose-built student accommodation in Manchester, reflecting broader trends in the UK PBSA market that prioritise well-planned, community-focused living solutions for students and essential workers alike.