First Street, Manchester

First Street is an ambitious mixed-use development of 2.5 million ft² that will play an integral part in Manchester’s urban regeneration.

NDY is working with ASK Developments to provide a robust strategy for the sustainability implications for this major project. The strategy will utilise leading technologies and allow for new initiatives over time to ensure continual improvement.

The development of First Street will extend the heart of Manchester city and create a new gateway to the city centre. The first phase involved the redevelopment of the former BT building now called Number One First Street. This 180,000 ft² Grade A office complex was completed in 2009 and the building was awarded the BREEAM Post Construction Certificate of Excellence. Number One First Street is the first office building in the North West to achieve this level of accreditation in the country.

Europe’s largest living green walls will feature prominently. Extensive public works will bring to Manchester a new 18 m wide, 300 m long, tree lined boulevard ensuring that First Street will become the best address for employees, residents and visitors alike. Exceptional transport links and a good mix of bars, restaurants and retail outlets will create a distinctive environment all week.

The site wide strategy is to implement sustainable principals during all phases of the project (demolition, regeneration and operation of the site). A robust energy and CO₂ reduction strategy features prominently. The day 1 targets represented a 20% improvement of requirements. Continual improvements are expected through the life of the project.

A number of technologies such as CHP, borehole cooling, biomass, PV and solar thermal have been assessed. A clear focus on passive design features for each of the buildings will enable the development to minimise its CO₂ footprint.

The water harvesting strategy for the site will lead to significant reductions in potable water consumption and outflow to the sewer.

As a sustainable development, a much broader agenda than CO₂ and has been addressed; the indoor environment, quality employment, community enhancement, waste and pollution also form part of the overall strategy.