Chorlton Park

Investigating new design thinking, Irwell Valley Housing Association arranged a competition, for the development of this heavily contaminated site. This was limited to local architects. The brief called for space, flexibility, integration with the external environment, and the maximisation of natural heat, light and ventilation.

Stephenson Bell won with a scheme for 21 flats. It was high density and low in embodied and operational energy. The number of dwellings was increased to 27 dwellings after the project became a joint venture with developer Urban Splash.

Despite its complexity, an architect-led ‘traditional’ contract delivered the project only just over schedule and budget.