Salford’s first ‘co-living’ tower has been approved by councillors, with the development being characterised as more Brooklyn than Manhattan, despite facing criticism over its proposed facilities.
Developer PL North Bridge has received approval from Salford City Council to build a 42-storey tower on Gorton Street in the city centre. The tower will feature 568 studio apartments, each ranging from 21 to 32 square metres. Amenities will include a games room, sky bar, concierge, cafe, gym and cinema room. However, none of the apartments will be classified as ‘affordable’.
The developers have stated that co-living arrangements are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, following trends seen in cities like Berlin and New York. This new development promises ‘privacy within a communal setting with a variety of social spaces’ and will be all-inclusive of bills, excluding the building’s spa facility.
Labour members of Salford’s planning committee have remarked that the changing nature of lifestyles should be considered. Coun Mike McCusker, Salford’s planning chief, noted that while he does not belong to the target demographic, the scheme offers an interesting shift from traditional hall of residence living to more independent living styles. He further added that the project aligns with the masterplan of the Greengate area, which aims to be more Brooklyn in style rather than Manhattan, maintaining public access along the river Irwell.
Coun John Warmisham voiced support for the project, stating that young people desire to live differently and that this development offers a place for like-minded individuals to come together. Conversely, Coun Bob Clarke expressed concerns, likening the living conditions to something out of George Orwell’s ‘1984’. He was particularly critical of the lack of individual washing machines, a sentiment echoed by his Conservative colleague, Coun Garrido, who questioned the project’s ability to attract local residents and expressed concerns about the high rent, which he estimated to be well over £1,000 per month.
Despite these criticisms, the application was approved with ten votes in favour and two against.
The approval of Salford’s first ‘co-living’ tower marks a significant development in the city’s housing landscape, despite facing resistance from some councillors over its affordability and amenities.