Planning permission has been granted by Manchester City Council’s planning committee for the room2 Hometel project, a pioneering £78 million development set to transform 12-16 Piccadilly in Manchester. The approval of the application – which was led by global real estate advisor, Avison Young, on behalf of developer, Lamington Group – marks a significant milestone in the creation of the UK’s first net zero carbon tower, which will combine contemporary design with historic preservation to deliver a unique aparthotel experience in a key gateway location in Manchester City Centre. The room2 Hometel development will feature a 34-storey tower and the sensitive conversion of an adjacent Grade II listed building. This project aims to enhance the city’s skyline and contribute to Manchester’s ambition to be a leading city for sustainable and innovative development. Alongside 251 aparthotel rooms, the scheme will include a net zero lifestyle museum and exhibition hall, a bar and restaurant on the upper floors of the tower and a planted rooftop terrace Both future guests and members of the public will be able to enjoy these additional amenities. Vanessa Rowell, Associate at Avison Young, said: “We are extremely pleased to have received planning approval for room2 Hometel, a project that epitomises the future of sustainable urban development and gives a vacant listed building and site in a gateway location a new lease of life Our vision is to create a landmark destination in Manchester that not only respects the city’s rich heritage but also sets new standards in environmental sustainability. This development will serve as a model for how cities can grow responsibly and innovatively while enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.” Robert Godwin, CEO of Lamington Group commented: “We are delighted to receive approval for this landmark building. It represents a major leap further forwards for Lamington Group and its commitment to delivering highly sustainable real estate, fit for the city of tomorrow. This building aims to set new benchmarks for net zero at this height in the UK and beyond, and we are excited to announce further innovations within it soon.” Located at a prominent site in the city centre, the room2 Hometel project will serve as a dynamic entry point for visitors arriving in Manchester. The development's exemplar design is set to enhance the sense of arrival to the city, providing guests and the public with unparalleled experiences and services. Key features of the project include:
- Net Zero Carbon Tower: The 34-storey tower will be the first of its kind in the UK, leading the way in sustainable building practices and energy efficiency.
- On site food production: Integrated into the south-east elevation of the tower, fresh produce will be supplied to the restaurant and bar, promoting local sourcing and reducing the carbon footprint.
- Green Rooftop Terrace: Open to the public, this terrace will offer breathtaking views over Manchester’s skyline, providing a unique leisure space in the heart of the city.
- Net Zero Lifestyle Museum: The exhibition hall and museum will educate visitors and guests about environmental impacts, sustainability, and green living, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of net zero practices.
- Public Spaces: The ground floor café, museum, rooftop restaurant, and bar, along with the green rooftop terrace, will be accessible to both aparthotel guests and the general public, creating a vibrant, inclusive community hub.
With planning approval now in place, construction is expected to commence in early 2025, with the development set to open its doors in late 2027. The project team will be working closely with local stakeholders, heritage groups, and environmental experts throughout the development process to ensure that room2 Hometel delivers lasting benefits for Manchester.
