Denton based Windmill Demolition are starting work on the site on Ashton Old Road in Openshaw in preparation for the mixed used development that will eventually deliver a new shopping, leisure and commercial centre in the heart of Openshaw. It is thought around 700 new jobs in the area will be created as a result.

Demolition is starting on the former social security offices as well as a run down snooker club and bank, all fronting Ashton Old Road in Openshaw. The development is being brought forward by Barnsley based Dransfield Properties, working in partnership with Manchester City Council and the urban regeneration company New East Manchester.

The new development will include:
·        A  Morrisons supermarket covering 80,000 sq ft 
·        Ten new purpose built retail units
·        57,000 sq ft of office accommodation
·        A café and restaurant
·        A 670 space car park.

Andrew Malley, retail property director for Dransfield Properties said: “We are very excited to be starting on site in Openshaw. This is an important development in the regeneration of this part of East Manchester and it is great to see this first step in delivering this scheme.”

The new district centre development is a key part of the regeneration of Openshaw which is aimed at doubling the population of the area in the next 10 to 15 years and attracting people back to the area.

Once the site has been cleared construction work is due to start early next year.