Manchester City Council’s plan-making assembly has been temporarily suspended and moved after members of the public expressed dissatisfaction with plans for a new science and generation site and student housing blocks in Ardwick.
Councillor Jon-Connor Lyons, Chair of the Committee, was forced to pause the meeting and move it to the Antechamber, with the public only able to watch the livestream, after repeated interruptions over the plans which were eventually approved.
After attempts were made to clear the public gallery, a protester shouted, “You don’t live in this neighborhood, but I do. We’re fed up with what’s happening every time. “
Councilman Lyons, first and foremost warning protesters, said, “This is not a pantomime. It’s a meeting to make plans.
But after interruptions, Lyons resolved to call the meeting, saying, “You’re letting yourself down. “
Residents and councillors have expressed their thoughts on plans for a six- to nine-storey scientific and generation building and a student housing block of up to 23 storeys on a plot bounded by Upper Brooke Street, Cottenham Street and Kincardine Road in Brunswick.
The plans also feature a community centre and 650,000 square feet of commercial space, but no additional car parking.
More than a hundred objections were raised related to the tower blocking sunlight, the arrival of too many scholars in the neighborhood, and the lack of parking spaces.
Councillor Abdigafar Muse, who represents the borough of Ardwick, said: “Ardwick is the car park of the city. “
Meanwhile, a local resident, Kate, speaking at the council meeting, said: “They are stealing our sunlight and our sky. It’s in the center. They’re destroying our city. “
The application for a structure permit was accompanied by a temporary proposal for the construction of 3 other student accommodation structures, up to 29 storeys and with 983 rooms.
Both proposals went through committee.
©Sheppard Robson
Cover photo ©Emily Cooper
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