07/03/2025

Build to Rent in Greater Manchester: Key Developers Shaping the City's Rental Market

The Build-to-Rent (BTR) sector is rapidly growing in Greater Manchester, driven by an increasing demand for high-quality rental accommodation in urban areas. This rise is fuelled by a need for flexible, modern living spaces, particularly as more people opt for renting in the city centre and the commuter towns surrounding it. BTR developments are crucial in addressing housing shortages, offering attractive rental options, and supporting community regeneration efforts. These projects are shaping the city's skyline while contributing to its long-term economic and social development.

Manchester Invest Partners are an integral part of the city’s housing strategy and provide invaluable investment and options to the city region's ever-evolving residents. Here are just some of the construction developers bringing Built-to-Rent options to Greater Manchester:

Renaker

Renaker is a key developer in Manchester, known for delivering large-scale build-to-rent projects that shape the city's skyline. Bringing now iconic landmarks like three60, Manchester’s first cylindrical skyscraper and the Deansgate cluster, the ever-growing collection of Skyscrapers is building up in South-West Manchester. Their current portfolio is bringing the following developments to the city region:

One Port Street, Northern Quarter is a £130 million BTR development offering 477 premium apartments across three blocks. The project includes luxury amenities such as a swimming pool, gym, and private fitness studio, enhancing the area's regeneration.

Deansgate Square, New Jackson Neighbourhood features four iconic towers housing 1,508 luxury apartments. The scheme provides extensive amenities, including The Club, roof gardens, and a business gallery. Public spaces like The Square and The Garden host independent restaurants and shops, boosting local business and community interaction.

New Jackson is a skyline neighbourhood at Manchester's southern city centre gateway, envisioned as a world-class skyscraper district. Spearheaded by Renaker, the master plan encompasses over 6,400 high-quality homes, with more than 3,000 already completed and 988 under construction.

Axis-RE

Axis-RE is a joint venture between Axis Capital and Marco Living, delivering modern Build to Rent homes in Manchester. With a focus on creating vibrant communities, Axis-RE blends high-quality design with sustainability to provide homes that meet the needs of modern renters.

Manchester's Piccadilly East district houses the development features £75 million Build to Rent scheme that will bring 196 apartments across two buildings, providing a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes. The project will include rooftop terraces, co-working spaces, and communal lounges, catering to the needs of modern renters. The development is designed to enhance community living while offering high-end amenities that attract young professionals and families.

Located near Manchester Piccadilly station, the scheme will contribute to the regeneration of Piccadilly East, supporting the area's transformation into a thriving residential and commercial hub.

Property Alliance Group

The Property Alliance Group is a widely recognised and respected property company based in Stretford, Trafford, that offers a comprehensive range of services and boasts extensive expertise in industrial, commercial, hotel, and residential sectors.

Property Alliance Group's AXIS, Manchester is a landmark residential tower, standing at 28 storeys with 170 luxury apartments. Located on the banks of the Rochdale Canal, the striking development features an eye-catching twisted design, making it one of the city's most distinctive buildings. AXIS offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments with high-end interiors and panoramic views across Manchester.

Uptown Manchester is a trio of residential towers along the River Irwell. Uptown delivers 156 BTR apartments with sustainable features like solar panels and energy-efficient heating systems. The scheme offers a rooftop terrace, a gym, and communal spaces, enhancing the area's appeal and supporting eco-friendly city living.

LIVINGWAY

LIVINGWAY is a prominent developer in Greater Manchester's Build to Rent sector, focusing on creating modern, community-centric living spaces. Their developments are designed to enhance urban living by providing high-quality accommodations with a range of amenities that cater to diverse lifestyles.

St George's Gardens, Manchester, offers one and two-bedroom apartments with spacious layouts, rooftop gardens, and excellent transport links. The scheme plans to enhance local amenities and encourages community interaction by providing a rejuvenated public realm.

Deansgate, Bolton repurposes a historic post office into 48 furnished apartments. On-site management, communal gardens, and a central location make it a prosperous edition to the area.

Ivy House, Failsworth, provides unfurnished, pet-friendly apartments with easy access to transport links, gyms, and local amenities. Bike storage and parking facilities cater to sustainable living.

LIVINGWAY's upcoming projects, including DUKE / 104 + Manchester, PASHA / 103 + Stockport, and George / 105 + Bolton, continue their commitment to enhancing urban living and supporting local communities.

PEEL

Peel L&P, a prominent regeneration specialist, is actively contributing to Greater Manchester's Build to Rent (BTR) sector through several key projects.

Peelers Yard, New Cross is a contemporary development comprising 81 one and two-bedroom apartments, duplex penthouses, and townhouses. Constructed on the historic site of an 1800s police station. This project not only provides modern living spaces but also revitalises a significant historical landmark, enhancing the cultural fabric of the community.

Manchester Waters, Trafford aims to transform a long-vacant brownfield dockland site into a vibrant mixed-use community. A recent approval includes the construction of 159 BTR apartments across two buildings overlooking the Bridgewater and Manchester Ship Canals. Designed with sustainability in mind, the development will feature energy-efficient technologies such as heat pumps and solar panels.

Peel L&P has committed to contributing the equivalent of 20% affordable housing within Trafford and funding enhancements to local green spaces and educational facilities. The project also plans to extend waterfront pedestrian and cycle routes, improving connectivity and promoting active lifestyles.

Salboy

Salboy is a leading property developer in Manchester, offering high-quality Build to Rent schemes that cater to the city's growing population. Salboy is committed to creating spaces that resonate with residents and enhance their lives.

Obsidian, Manchester is the latest development from Salboy, providing 250 apartments aimed at young professionals. The scheme focuses on contemporary design with premium amenities, including a rooftop garden and fitness facilities, enhancing urban living while meeting housing demand.

Boddingtons Brewery site was acquired by Salboy, where it plans to deliver 560 new homes. The site will feature a mix of BTR apartments and affordable housing, along with public green spaces and retail units, supporting the area's regeneration.

Local Crescent, Salford offers 399 luxury apartments with amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, gym, and cinema room. The development blends high-end living with access to the surrounding parkland, enhancing residents' quality of life.

Morgan Sindall

Morgan Sindall Construction has been instrumental in advancing Build to Rent (BTR) developments in Greater Manchester, particularly within Salford's New Bailey area.

Slate Yard Phase 3, New Bailey, Salford, was completed in December 2020. This 21-story tower comprises 199 apartments, featuring a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. Amenities include a gym, exercise studio, lounge, and private dining room.

Plot C2, Salford Central Masterplan will bring 196 apartments, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, along with 3800 sq ft of internal amenity space. The project is part of the broader Salford Central masterplan and has secured forward funding from CBRE Investment Management. Construction is set to commence following the funding agreement, with Morgan Sindall's involvement reflecting their ongoing collaboration with ECF in transforming the area.

Muse

Muse Developments is a key player in Manchester's Build to Rent sector, delivering high-quality homes and supporting urban regeneration. With a track record of delivering complex, mixed-use projects, Muse works to deliver great places, with an emphasis on sustainability, community and quality.

New Victoria, Manchester sits next to Manchester Victoria station, offering 520 apartments across two towers of 20 and 25 storeys. The scheme includes co-working spaces, a gym, cinema room, and shared dining area, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. The project also provides retail and workspaces, boosting the local economy.

The Build-to-Rent sector is a vital component of Greater Manchester's urban development, offering much-needed high-quality rental homes. These projects not only address the housing demand but also contribute to the city's regeneration and sustainable growth. As the sector continues to thrive, BTR developments will play an increasingly important role in shaping Manchester’s future, providing both modern living spaces and supporting the local economy. The ongoing transformation of the city’s rental landscape ensures a bright outlook for residents and investors alike.