Copyright manchestereveningnews
A university has released images of scaled-back design concepts for its new library. Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) said the new building is set to become ‘a bold and future-focused space at the heart of the campus’. The new library will replace the existing All Saints building with what MMU describe as ‘a purpose-built, digitally enabled facility designed to support study, research, and collaboration’. Join our Traffic and Travel WhatsApp group HERE A portion of the current building will be retained and refurbished as part of the plans. The new plans for the library, to be built in the shadow of Mancunian Way, are different to plans approved by city planners in early 2024. The current, approved blueprints are for a 13-storey institution with a ‘zig-zag’ design wrapped round a central glass box. Also previously approved were gallery and events spaces which would both be open to the public. However, last month, a screening and scoping report, produced by Deloitte, revealed that the building is now planned to be nine storeys, with resultant floorspace reductions. It is understood the revised plans have been developed after the original proposal became unviable amid rising construction costs. On the revised plans, MMU said the new building will be an ‘inspiring and inclusive space that redefines the role of the library in a modern university’. It said new design features include light-filled interiors, flexible study areas and advanced digital infrastructure. The plans also aim to enhance surrounding public areas with new green spaces, improved pedestrian routes and ‘welcoming social areas’. Andrew Fallon, chief property officer at MMU, said: “This project is an exciting milestone for our campus and a cornerstone of our evolving estates strategy. “Driven by a bold vision for the future, the new library will be a landmark development, reflecting our commitment to outstanding education, world-class research, and a more connected, vibrant campus experience for all. “It marks the beginning of an inspiring new chapter in realising our university’s ambition and the future of our estates masterplan – bringing our vision to life in ways that will shape generations to come.” A public consultation on the project will run from October 23 to November 21, 2025. Feedback can be submitted online via the university website or by email to ukdeloitteconsultation@deloitte.co.uk.
