Muse named partner for £500m Wythenshawe mixed-use regeneration
Muse has been named as the delivery and investment partner for a £500m mixed-use redevelopment of Wythenshawe Civic, south Manchester.
In October 2023, Manchester City Council began the process to find a private sector partner that could invest and develop the site to meet regeneration targets set out in the town centre.
The regeneration is set to create new shops, net-zero carbon commercial space, a new public square, community and cultural space, and over 1,750 new homes over the next 10 years.
The joint venture partnership has also set a target to deliver the UK’s first Positive Energy District (PED) in Wythenshawe. This will be targeted through the creation of highly energy efficient buildings, native trees, urban allotments, and roof gardens.
The total investment is expected to cost in excess of £500m, with initial development work set to start as early as 2025.
The investment was kickstarted with a £20m grant through the Levelling Up programme to Manchester City Council, which itself has contributed an additional £11.9m to deliver a cultural and creative hub, food hall, co-working and employment space, and an initial investment in new public realm.
Councillor Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “This is a key moment for our ambitious plan for long-term regeneration of Wythenshawe Civic. Bringing Muse in as development and investment partner means we can quickly progress to begin delivering on proposals that will genuinely transform the town centre in the coming years.
“Muse brings with them a wealth of experience in transformational and sustainable development projects and we look forward to working closely with them to bring forward plans for the town centre quickly.
“Regeneration is about much more than buildings, it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create jobs, deliver secure and affordable housing, tackle deprivation, strengthen community and create opportunity for the people of Wythenshawe.”
Phil Marsden, managing director North West at Muse, added: “We are extremely excited to be given this opportunity to deliver a vibrant new neighbourhood in Wythenshawe. A place which is successful, sustainable and full of character. A place that people are proud to live in, and that people will love to visit.
“We will now work closely with Manchester City Council, other local partners and the local community, to deliver against an ambitious and bold strategy. One which delivers a community-centric, climate-resilient, and inclusive Wythenshawe Civic. Our team has engaged closely with the community and listened to local people. We will work with, and build on, what already makes Wythenshawe special. We are committed to addressing the challenges and seek to change perceptions. There is so much to be excited about. ”