Gary Neville's property firm, Relentless Developments, has joined a revised plan to build 723 build-to-rent apartments in two towers in Manchester city centre. The development, on the site of Stocktons Furniture in Ancoats, will feature towers of 24 and 44 storeys, along with new office space.
The original scheme, proposed by Liquid Funding Business, was blocked by Manchester City Council in January this year after receiving more than 130 objections. Concerns were raised about the impact on daylight on surrounding properties, particularly the Oxygen tower. Councillors delayed the scheme in November and December 2025 before voting to block it.
The revised plans, now a joint venture with Relentless Developments, have been resubmitted for approval. Key changes include reducing the tallest building from 49 storeys to 44 storeys. The site is opposite the future Manchester Digital Campus on Great Ancoats Street, which is expected to become a base for Andy Burnham's Number 10 North.
Revised plans and community engagement
Anthony Kilbride, CEO of Relentless Developments, said: "Since joining the JV [joint venture], we've reviewed the project with fresh eyes, listened carefully to the comments made during the previous planning process and spent a lot of time assessing the scheme with the existing consultancy team, ward councillors and local residents." He added: "We want to make it the best it can be and ensure it meets our ambitions and approach to development."
In the revised plans, 50 apartments will be offered at Manchester Living Rent levels, spread throughout the development with the same specification, size and access to amenities. These homes will be managed through an agreement with Manchester City Council.
Timeline and impact
If approved, construction could start at the end of 2027, with completion timed to coincide with the opening of the Manchester Digital Campus in 2032. Daniel Green, CEO of Liquid Business, said: "Stocktons reflects our ambition to bring together commercial vision, quality and meaningful social value. We believe the scheme can make a lasting contribution to this part of Manchester and to the city's continued growth."
Relentless Developments has previously delivered Hotel Football in Old Trafford, the Stock Exchange Hotel and No.1 St Michael's in the city centre. Kilbride added: "Ultimately, Stocktons will make an important contribution to the city's growth plans and growing need for new apartments, while acting as a catalyst for further investment and development." He also noted the scheme's role in the wider Manchester Piccadilly masterplan announced at MIPIM earlier this year.
