Plans to transform the Triangle shopping centre into a ‘Covent Garden of the north’ are moving forward after Manchester Cathedral and Chetham’s School of Music gave the proposals the thumbs up.
The centre's owners, Aviva Investors, have submitted plans to Manchester City Council for the first phase of the transformation of the shopping centre, creating an exciting dining and shopping experience in Exchange Square.
The proposals focus on restoring the building's Edwardian architecture by removing all the old signage, metal structures, out-dated lighting and repairing the damage to the stone facades.
Crucially, the company also plans to return the centre to its original historic name of The Manchester Corn Exchange.
The City Council asked businesses for their views on the proposals, and a report going to the City Council's executive meeting on March 14 will highlight the responses received.
Manchester Cathedral and Chethams School of Music both welcomed the proposals, and further discussions are now planned with both organisations as more detailed plans are brought forward.
Councillor Pat Karney, Manchester City Council's city centre spokesperson, said: "It's great to see the plans for this important city centre site move forward. We share the owners' ambitions to restore this magnificent building to its former glory - and of course bring back into use its historic Corn Exchange name.
"At the same time it will be transformed into a modern, exciting shopping experience that will become known as the Covent Garden of the north and will attract visitors from far and wide."
Philip Nell, Aviva Investors' Head of UK Retail Funds - Real Estate, said: "We are delighted that the council is supportive of our plans for the Corn Exchange that will help bring new vitality to this area of Manchester, and will put this historic building at the heart of the vibrant northern sector of the city centre.
"Restoring the building's heritage, and introducing new signage and lighting are the just the first steps in making the building attractive to both retailers and restaurant operators, as well as the Manchester public and visitors."