Developer northerngroup has completed an apartment scheme in the heart of Ancoats.

The Ice Plant is a £12m development featuring 82 top specification one, two and three-bedroom apartments offering a European approach to renting in Manchester.

The mixed-use scheme combines the restored façade and original features of Ancoats' historic ice-making warehouse with three new-build blocks, including an eight-storey tower built around a central glass atrium. Spacious apartments open onto a tree-lined indoor avenue to create a contemporary and community feel. Many also have balconies while four unique duplexes combine original red-brick walls with superior modern fittings, including one with a glazed sauna.

The scheme includes a 2,000+ sq ft penthouse featuring three bedrooms, a double sized bath, island kitchen with integrated wine cooler and panoramic 360 degree views of the city, from the Town Hall to the Etihad Stadium.


northerngroup is retaining complete ownership of the building, with all 82 apartments for rent. This means, unlike traditional buy-to-let landlords who are more detached from their properties, they have an in-house team of property managers to ensure high standards are maintained for all tenants.

The development is close to Northern Quarter bars and restaurants and overlooks the new Cutting Room Square and St Peter’s Church - recently confirmed as a second home for the city's acclaimed Halle orchestra. It has five glass-fronted, flexible ground level retail / commercial units fronting on to the square that range from 2,000 sq ft to 7,000 sq ft - suited to tenants who can boost Ancoats’ appeal as one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods and destinations.

The development's entrance area retains historic stone flags and cast iron curbs next to light boxes displaying the work of Dan Dubowitz, Ancoats’ artist-in-residence.

Delivered by the property company's construction arm, northerngroup build, it received over £4m investment from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). The scheme has provided jobs for over 100 local construction workers and apprentices and has been one of only a handful of developments in the city centre to complete since the recession.

(CD/GK)