Demolition to Begin on Chorlton Cross Shopping Centre as Regeneration Project Advances
Makers Yard
Demolition work is set to start on the former Chorlton Cross Shopping Centre, marking a significant step forward in plans to redevelop the site into a vibrant residential and retail neighbourhood.
Following planning approval granted at the end of 2025, phase one of the regeneration will involve dismantling both the former shopping centre and the adjacent Graeme House buildings. The precinct car park will close at the end of May 2026, with new hoardings erected around the site. Additionally, the pedestrian and vehicle cut-through between Manchester Road and Nicolas Road will be closed to ensure safety during the works.
The demolition contract has been awarded to SJ Walchester, with operations expected to commence in mid-June and conclude by August. Efforts will be made to reuse materials from the existing structures during the construction of the new neighbourhood, aiming to reduce the volume of waste transported off-site.
Georgina Lynch, managing director at PJ Livesey, said: “Demolition marks another major milestone for the project which will completely transform the former shopping centre. Keeping local people safe and minimising disruption is our top priority. We’ve been working with the existing traders to carefully manage any disruption during the demolition. This has included arranging new servicing access for the businesses on Wilbraham Road.” She added, “Our demolition contractor will carefully manage any issues throughout the work, and we will continue to stay in regular contact with local residents and businesses as the demolition progresses.”
The regeneration is being led by Manchester-based PJ Livesey in partnership with the Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF). The development will deliver a mix of 262 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, all featuring outdoor spaces such as balconies and gardens. Of these, 53 homes will be affordable, with 49 designated for social rent, addressing the local shortage of smaller affordable homes.
Public amenities will include approximately 3,500 square metres of open space, featuring a fully walkable route through Manchester Road and outdoor seating areas designed to encourage community engagement. The retail offering will comprise flexible units, including a new ‘Makers Yard’ intended for smaller and start-up businesses. The site will also see the planting of up to 60 new trees, alongside efforts to retain existing greenery.
In collaboration with Southway Housing Trust, PJ Livesey and GMPF will provide 49 social rent homes within the neighbourhood. All residences will be designed to minimise energy consumption and reduce residents’ utility bills. The development will be all-electric, incorporate some on-site renewable energy generation, and be equipped with future-proofed electric vehicle charging facilities.
Founded over 45 years ago, the family-run PJ Livesey Group specialises in transforming historic properties and regenerating brownfield sites across the UK with bespoke designs. The company was recently named one of Homes England’s preferred delivery partners.
