Grade II listed 1960s Manchester office set for major refurbishment

Planners have granted approval for a refurbishment of a 1960s office in the middle of Manchester, which will see the listed building’s façade overhauled to improve energy efficiency.

Pall Mall Court, which is located on King Street, will retain its grade II listed design despite significant renovations to improve the efficiency and airtightness of the cladding.

The redevelopment plans, drawn up by Sheppard Robson, will see 85,000 sq ft of office and hospitality space created across three interlinked blocks.

Developer Bruntwood Works said refurbishment will save approximately 7,900 tonnes of additional carbon emitted under a rebuild.

The firm’s commercial director, Andrew Butterworth, said he hoped the refurb project would “act as a blueprint for sustainable listed renovations”.

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The building had sat mostly vacant for four years before being acquired for £13m last October by Bruntwood, which has developed plans for the building as part of its £200m pioneer programme focused on sustainability, wellness and innovation.

The developer wants the development to be a home for “consciously minded” businesses that can demonstrate strong Environmental, Social and Governance credentials.

It is designed to be zero carbon in operation and is aiming to achieve BREEAM ‘Very Good’ and an EPC B rating, while the interior fit-out will prioritise the use of recycled and reclaimed materials.

Other plans include an outdoor piazza and covered terrace and the building will feature a range of amenities including a roof terrace, co-working lounge and a gym.

Pall Mall will form part of a cluster of city centre properties with Bloc, Manchester Club, Bond and 57 Spring Gardens, which will allow customers to use shared facilities and services.

The project team includes structural engineers DWLLP, heritage consultant Stephen Levrant Heritage Architecture, Deloitte as planning consultants and Ramboll providing sustainability consulting, mechanical electrical and plumbing.

The scheme is set for completion in winter 2023/24.

Pall Mall Court was designed by architect Brett & Pollen in 1969 and first listed in 2000.