Developer Downing has hosted 'topping out' ceremony to mark the first phase of its major £400 million shared living scheme, Square Gardens.

As part of First Street, Square Gardens will bring 1,301 new homes to one of Manchester's fastest growing and vibrant neighbourhood communities, with a mix of accommodation to suit every price point, including shared apartments and one bed studios, together with one and two-bed apartments.

Residents will enjoy fantastic amenities and services, including a gym, wellness centre and co-working spaces plus extensive social areas such as lounges, a cinema room and private dining area, all set within the largest private landscaped garden in the city centre.

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The topping out ceremony marked Downing reaching the highest point in the construction of the Acer Tower - the first phase of the landmark residential development, which is set to be the largest co-living development in the UK.

Downing's Chairman George Downing, Investment Director Bay Downing and Projects Director George Tyson were joined on-site to celebrate the ‘topping out’ by the Leader of Manchester City Council Cllr Bev Craig, alongside Cllr Gavin White, Executive Member for Housing and Development and Becca Heron, the city council’s Strategic Director for Growth and Development.

Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: "Square Gardens will enhance the growing First Street district and add to its vibrancy. We have an ambitious housing strategy to deliver 36,000 new homes in Manchester by 2032 and this development will play a significant part.""

The scheme, designed by award-winning architects Simpson Haugh Partnership, will boast one of the largest outdoor green spaces in the city. It will also include the addition of more than 140 new trees, which will improve air quality and aid in the wellbeing of the wider First Street community.