The Manchester neighbourhood that could become the new No.10 North
Places don't stand still. Neither do cities.
New Islington in Manchester is proof of that.
It was fascinating to read that Andy Burnham is considering locating a northern base for government in New Islington. If plans progress, a neighbourhood that has spent the last two decades reinventing itself could become home to a new "No.10 North".
For us, the story isn't really about politics.
It's about transformation.
Twenty-five years ago, few people would have predicted this future. What was once the Cardroom Estate had become disconnected from the city around it, a place defined more by decline than opportunity. Today, New Islington is one of Manchester's most distinctive neighbourhoods — a place where homes, workspaces, canals, parks, schools, independent businesses and great architecture sit side by side.
The change didn't happen overnight.
It took a shared vision, long-term commitment and collaboration between public and private partners. Together we've helped create a neighbourhood where people want to live, work, walk, meet friends and raise families. A place that feels connected to Manchester while maintaining a character all of its own.
Today you'll find bustling cafés, restaurants, homes overlooking the marina, Cotton Field Park, workspaces for growing businesses and a community that continues to evolve. The area has become a destination in its own right while remaining closely linked to neighbouring Ancoats, one of the most vibrant parts of the city.
Now another chapter may be beginning.
The new Manchester digital campus being developed close to New Islington is expected to bring thousands of civil servants together in one location. If government functions do ultimately move here, it would be another sign of Manchester's growing influence and another stage in the evolution of this part of the city.
What's most interesting isn't the prospect of a northern No.10.
It's the fact that New Islington has become the kind of place where that conversation is even possible.
That's what great regeneration can do.
It can take a forgotten piece of a city and turn it into somewhere people choose to be. Somewhere that attracts investment, talent, ideas and new opportunities. Somewhere with a future.
For New Islington, the story has always been bigger than buildings.
It's about creating a neighbourhood that works for people.
And if one day part of government chooses to call it home too, we'll take that as another sign that places built around people tend to thrive
Urban Splash Newsplash
Want to be kept in the loop about all things Urban Splash? Then sign up for Newsplash!
Our monthly news round-up with the latest and freshest news on property development, place-making, housing, architecture, events and careers sent straight to your inbox.
Looking for something else?
