Manchester City Council has selected Muse to deliver the £500m regeneration of Wythenshawe town centre.
In October 2023, the council commenced a procurement exercise, managed by Savills and DWF Group, to find a private sector partner who could invest in and develop the Civic project.
The ambitious regeneration project will see a new public square, shops, net zero carbon commercial space, community and cultural space and more than 1,750 new homes – including significant affordable housing – delivered over the next 10 years.
The council was awarded a £20m grant through the Levelling Up programme, which will be complemented by a further £11.9m from the local authority to deliver a cultural and creative hub, food hall, co-working and employment space and initial investment in new public realm in Wythenshawe. The initial development work could commence as early as next year.
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. In the meantime, we are still progressing initial investment at the Civic – including the new public square, culture hub and food hall as a statement of intent around our ambition for Wythenshawe – there’s a lot to be excited about and we’ll keep the local community up to date on progress.”
Phil Marsden, managing director for Muse – North West, 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.”
