Manchester is on the brink of witnessing one of its most ambitious regeneration projects, and BWB is at its heart. The city council recently unveiled a multi-disciplinary team tasked with crafting a Neighbourhood Development Framework (NDF) for Holt Town, an area ripe for rejuvenation in east Manchester. Our Deetu team is poised to lead the digital engagement efforts, marking a significant milestone in Manchester’s developmental narrative.
This collaborative endeavour is spearheaded by the renowned Studio Egret West and features a stellar lineup, including Deetu, Deloitte, MVRDV NEXT, Turley, AKT II, Hilson Moran, and Hatch. This diverse assembly brings together a wealth of expertise from local, national, and international domains, promising a dynamic and multifaceted approach to the regeneration of Holt Town.
The selected proposal stands out for its vibrant and inventive vision, which is deeply rooted in Manchester’s rich developmental and planning heritage. It resonates with the council’s ambition to breathe new life into this historic part of the city.
BWB’s Director of Place, Josh Dickerson, encapsulated the enthusiasm surrounding this project: “The Deetu team is electrified at the prospect of embarking on one of Manchester’s most pivotal regeneration schemes. We’re eager to leverage our extensive experience to engage the Greater Manchester community through compelling digital storytelling, ensuring their voices are integral to the regeneration narrative.”
Strategically positioned between the bustling city centre and the investment-rich east Manchester, Holt Town presents an unparalleled opportunity for transformation. The regeneration plan spans 30 hectares of brownfield sites, disused infrastructure, and underexploited historical assets, setting the stage for a sustainable, digital-first new town within Manchester.
The vision for Holt Town is audacious yet achievable — a digitally driven community that seamlessly integrates about 4,500 new homes with expansive, safe, and verdant public spaces. This futuristic neighbourhood is designed to foster health, wellbeing, and active living, reflecting Manchester’s evolving urban landscape.
Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “We’re thrilled with the overwhelming response and the visionary proposal that aligns perfectly with our aspiration to create a vibrant new town within our city. The plan for Holt Town is a testament to our commitment to preserving heritage while opening doors to digital innovation, affordable housing, and sustainable features for future generations.”
Holt Town’s strategic location, complete with a dedicated Metrolink station and proximate employment opportunities, is ideal for residents and businesses looking to thrive in a digitally forward and historically rich setting.
As we look to the past, Holt Town’s future is painted with innovation, celebrating its industrial legacy while embracing the digital age. David West, Founding Director of Studio Egret West, shared, “We’re inspired by the council’s vision for Holt Town and are excited to contribute our creative energies to this groundbreaking project, aiming for a co-created and inclusive neighbourhood.”
With plans moving swiftly towards consultation, at BWB, we’re more than just participants in this project; we’re leading the digital narrative, ensuring that every voice and story is heard. Discover more about our innovative approach to engagement and how we add value to projects across the board at www.deetu.com
Stay tuned for updates on this transformative journey as we reimagine Holt Town for the future.