This City is a Manchester City Council-owned housing development company, established in 2021 and officially launched in February 2022. It was created to help increase the supply of homes in Manchester, with a focus on high-quality, low-carbon housing that includes accessible-rent and market homes.647
The company’s work includes planning, financing and building homes in the communities they are intended to serve. Its geographic focus is Manchester; its stated ambition is to build up to 500 homes a year, with at least 20% of future homes offered at an accessible rent.62 The council provides land and has directly financed the first phases of development.3
The first project was announced for Rodney Street in Ancoats: a 128-home scheme of apartments and townhouses, with 30% planned for affordable rent. Wates Construction was appointed as contractor.27 This City’s wider purpose is to contribute to the city’s housing supply while supporting its low-carbon housing goals.46
Manchester City Council is the company’s owner. The council’s leader, Cllr Bev Craig, has publicly described the company as part of the city’s plans to build more homes residents can afford.32 The company is registered in Manchester, at the Town Hall Extension.11