Exceeding expectations

Through a combination of successful partnering and imaginative thinking, Muse has provided Manchester City Council with one of the best examples of successful urban regeneration in the country.

Having fallen into disuse in the 1970s, the Smithfield area of Manchester had become regarded locally as a ‘no go’ area. Over the past four years Ician, a joint venture between Muse and Crosby Homes, has delivered an award-winning mixed use development of modern buildings, while restoring much of the neighbourhood’s original character and charm. Homeowners, tenants, retail and commercial businesses have returned to an area that Mancunians view with renewed pride. The latest phase of the nine year scheme opened in September and includes a new 230 bedroom Crowne Plaza hotel.

Urban regeneration of a different kind saw Morgan Est modernise Shepherd’s Bush underground station in just eight months. This is widely regarded as the fastest ever completion of a station project of this size.

Working seven days a week, around the clock, Morgan Est constructed a new ticket hall capable of handling a 40% increase in passengers. Below ground, a separate £10m contract for the division involved the modernisation of passageways and platforms. To ensure delivery within the client’s timescale, new working practices were developed that enabled construction to continue during the day, when access would normally be restricted.

Elsewhere in the capital, Vivid Interiors, part of the Fit Out division, was praised by Delfont Mackintosh for its innovative approach to the renovation of the architecturally acclaimed Wyndham’s Theatre. During the 18 week project, which included the full refurbishment of the auditorium and washrooms, provision of new sound and light systems and the installation of two new gantry levels, various specification changes were accommodated. The result is a beautifully renovated, landmark building in the heart of London’s theatre land.