Looking across the Manchester skyline there is one dominant feature: cranes. The recent surge in construction projects across the city has seen Manchester cement itself as a thriving global destination.
AFL's Greening Manchester campaign is an ongoing drive to promote green infrastructure, including green roofs, within the city centre. Over the last few years, we have collaborated with local businesses such as OPEN, Bruntwood, City of Trees and Hilson Moran to envision the possibilities of a new “park in the sky”.
The benefits for Manchester would be significant: improved urban drainage, micro-climate, energy conservation and carbon reduction, enhanced biodiversity, amenity and noise attenuation.
Vegetation on visible sections of roofs also improves physical and mental health, social engagement, reduced heat effects, natural control of air and water pollution, improved property values and city marketing.
Why is this important? Read on:
"The largest concentration of poor air quality is around the City Centre, which is also a nationally important economic centre and the proposed location for a considerable proportion of Greater Manchester’s new housing and office floorspace."
Part of this future lies in the city’s ecology. There are already several existing buildings with green roofs, including the landmark Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Metropolitan University All Saints and Business School buildings, the Town Hall, the First Street building, number one New York Street and Piccadilly Basin. Sections of the tram network also have green initiatives in place.
AFL Architects are aware of the strong links that exist between the buildings, urban space and the mental and physical wellbeing of residents. The practice has implemented green roofs on buildings around the UK, including Chelsea FC’s Cobham Training Facility and RIBA-award winning Gloucester Gateway Services.
AFL believes this region can become one of the leading cities for green development in Europe.
Wildflower seeded roof, electric vehicle charging stations, capacity to switch to bio-fuel pumps, and onsite shop with local produce.
Green roof and maximisation of natural light using flat structural glass rooflights.
Sustainable roof with the capacity to host pockets of wildlife.
Unfinished timber cladding from sustainable sources.
FSC-certified timber and glass entrance provides natural light and openness.
Masterplan with well-designed green spaces that create a network of cycle paths and footpaths to encourage activity.
Sustainable neighbourhood with recreational green spaces and pocket parks.
Competition examining ways in which waterscapes could be integrated into city masterplanning.
Highly sustainable, environmentally friendly materials - BREEAM Excellent.
Climbing plants and timber cladding creates a soft exterior that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
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