Connell Brothers Ltd is proud to announce our appointment as Principal Contractor for the significant demolition phase of the All Saints Library at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU).

This contract marks a critical first step in the university’s £80m redevelopment of the Oxford Road site. As the university moves forward with its vision for a new nine-storey, 130,000 sq ft facility, our team has been entrusted with the complex task of clearing the footprint to make the new build phase possible.

Clearing the Path for Progress

The demolition scope involves the removal of the majority of the existing 1970s library structure. Key aspects of our role include:

  • Precision Demolition: Carefully removing the main library structure while ensuring a section of the existing building is retained for future redevelopment as a separate educational facility.

  • Live Campus Management: Operating in the heart of one of the UK’s busiest student environments, requiring meticulous planning to minimise noise and dust disruption.

  • Site Preparation: Providing a clean, safe site ready for the subsequent construction of the new Hawkins\Brown designed library.

A Proven Track Record in Education

This appointment further strengthens Connell Brothers’ reputation as a specialist in the education sector. We understand that working within a live university campus requires a unique level of sensitivity and logistical precision.

Our history with Manchester Metropolitan University is extensive. We previously delivered the complex Mabel Tylecote project, which involved the intricate demolition of the building on Oxford Road. That project showcased our expertise in façade retention and working in extremely tight city-center confines, skills that will be paramount as we return to the All Saints area.

“We are delighted to be working with Manchester Metropolitan University once again,” said Mark Riley, Connell Brothers Commercial Manager. “Our team is focused on delivering a safe and efficient demolition programme that paves the way for the university’s next chapter while maintaining the highest standards of safety in this vibrant part of Manchester.”

Looking Ahead

While the university’s revised plans feature a glazed ceramic façade and a range of new student spaces, our immediate focus remains on the “heavy lifting.” By utilising our specialised fleet and experienced site teams, we are ensuring that the All Saints site is transitioned seamlessly from its 1970s roots to a modern development platform.