Allied London has today unveiled plans for a new urban oasis in Hardman Square, to be known as ‘The Field’.
The concept had been inspired by Eleanor Byrom, a young Manchester-habitant whose health was transformed in the 1700’s by a field opposite her home, today known as ‘Hardman Square’.
‘The Field’, says the developed, will be a celebration of green space in the city; a cutting-edge, but inherently sustainable destination, with exciting bars and restaurants, interlinking footpaths and planted areas.
A permament and adventurous public space, home to a four-storey, timber-framed building known as The Pavillion.
An impressive timber structure, The Pavilion will be greened and softened with landscaped ledges and trellaces, tiered seating and street furniture, adding some ever-needed public green space to the urban layout of Manchester city centre.
Enveloped by a green veil, which will link and intertwine The Pavilion and The Field together, the area will be a unified and completely unique space for an ever-evolving Spinningfields
Michael Ingall, Allied London’s Chief Executive commented: “The Field will be a space with a personality. Inspired by a true story, continuing on a legacy, The Field will reinvigorate the vision of a 19th century girl who fought to retain green space in Manchester. This wish is as relevant as ever today and The Field will provide a dynamic and inviting space for Manchester.”
“A place of this calibre was always envisioned as part of the original Spinningfields masterplan and will become a home from home for resident workers at Spinningfields, especially those based at No.1 Spinningfields, who will have this iconic new structure on their doorstep.
““We hope it will be a legacy, not only to the remarkable story of ‘The Field’, but also to the financial crisis of 2008, a crisis that put a stop to the development plans for several years. Out of crisis comes opportunity. In this case the overwhelming success this area enjoyed as temporary public realm with The Lawn Club seemed to add more value to the place than any building could ever do. It has ensured the opportunity to keep it free for people to enjoy and continue something exceptional and striking.
“Now seems an apt time in the wake of Brexit to reinvigorate that sense of hope and in true British style, to keep calm and carry on.”
Allied London’s 19-storey commercial development, No.1 Spinningfields will complete the masterplan for Spinningfields and create a world-class development unrivalled outside of London. The building will open in 2017.
