Parks, leisure and the arts George Street Conservation Area

Control of development

George Street and its environs is an area of great commercial vitality and the desire is to see it prosper. The continued use of existing buildings will ensure that they do not fall into disrepair. Development of businesses will be encouraged and, where appropriate, modern building proposals will be given the freedom to develop as long as they do not detract from the existing quality of the built environment.

When proposals for new buildings are being considered, the character of existing buildings should be studied. The height, massing and materials of existing buildings should be respected, particularly as this is not an area where landmark buildings can be justified. Consequently, heights of between three and seven storeys, red/orange brick with sandstone dressings, vertically-proportioned window openings with deep reveals and an emphasis on corners of buildings, are all cues to the design of new buildings. Furthermore, all new building proposals should generally be to the back of pavement.

Most development proposals will require planning permission and even minor works may also require the prior approval of the City Council. Alterations to listed buildings will require Listed building Consent. The City Centre Team will be willing to give advice on such matters, which should be sought at an early stage, as should advice on any demolition proposals in the conservation area.

As with all new development, new proposals are considered in their context. This may mean preparing designs which relate to an entire street, or to long vistas seen from the junction of two streets, rather than evolving a design which could be located anywhere in Manchester or indeed in any other city.

 Anyone wishing to fell, prune or uproot a tree covered by a Tree Preservation Order or in a Conservation Area should seek permission first from us before undertaking any work to the tree.

More information on trees.  

 

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