Developers have bought the derelict brewery site in Lancaster city centre aiming to transform it as part of the long-awaited Canal Quarter.
Marco Living and Axis-RE have completed the purchase of the three acre former Mitchell's Brewery site on Brewery Lane and said they want to deliver a £100m "vibrant, commercial-led mixed-use" scheme on the land.
The Manchester-based company said this "marks a move that unlocks one of the region's most significant regeneration opportunities" and will act as a "catalyst for the wider community-focused masterplan...enabling the long-desired delivery of housing, healthcare, education and leisure uses"
The firm said they anticipate the project will be completed in three to five years.
"The development is expected to create significant employment opportunities for local residents during both construction and operational phases, supporting Lancaster's economy and providing career opportunities for the local workforce," said a Marco Living and Axis-RE spokesperson.
The scheme "represents not just a standalone project but the first step in a broader vision that combines deep local knowledge with national development expertise to realise Lancaster's full potential".
The site lies between the city's main shopping district and canal path.
Russ Worthington, Axis-RE Director and co-founder, was born and raised in Lancaster and continues to live locally with his family.
Below, Russ Worthington. Image: Axis-RE
"Following a failed attempt at regenerating this site in 2018, it has taken a lot of soul searching and hard work to secure this site," said Mr Worthington.
"I believe that with a new team of experienced professionals, we will deliver a project that will be better for everyone. There is a lot of work to do, but our team are excited for the challenge ahead."
A spokesperson for Marco Living and Axis-RE said "the development team is committed to working in partnership with the Lancaster community, designing with both local residents and the local economy in mind.
"Prioritising early engagement with local stakeholders, the partnership aims to build a picture of how this development can support, not disrupt, the lives of Lancaster people.
"Crucially, the development has been designed with flexibility and permeability in mind.
"New walkways, active frontages and open public spaces ensure the scheme won't sit in isolation but will connect into the city's existing rhythm.
"The ambition is to create a resilient, multi-use destination that serves residents, visitors, students and businesses alike. Offering economic benefit without eroding Lancaster's character.
"The project also embraces innovation. the partnership are exploring sustainable technologies such as green concrete and modular build and will also ensure the development meets the local authority's low carbon and energy-efficient requirements as well as delivering significant public open space. These features are being embedded not as afterthoughts but as fundamental components of the site's long-term legacy.
"Early conversations are already underway with local MPs, council leaders and planning teams.
"The feedback has been positive, with a shared appetite to see this key part of the city brought back to life.
"The next phase is about building momentum, strengthening relationships and making sure the final scheme reflects the needs and hopes of the people who know Lancaster best."
The real estate firm has worked on a number of regeneration projects in the Manchester area, including plans for a 261-luxury apartment block in the city's Northern Quarter.
In 2023, Lancaster City Council formally adopted a masterplan to revive the Canal Quarter area of the city.
The aim of the masterplan is to bring back into use many of Lancaster’s important buildings and derelict sites across 6.5 hectares of land, to "create a vibrant, sustainable, and active place which is integrated with the city centre and the Lancaster Canal", said the council.
The idea is to create a new sustainable mixed-use neighbourhood with approximately 580 new homes for families and individuals.
The masterplan includes "safe pedestrian and cycle friendly streets" with new pedestrian access to Lancaster Canal.
Space has also been set aside for business, retail, food and beverage outlets to complement what's currently in the city centre.
The masterplan also includes two new public squares to provide "lively social spaces" for events along a new Brewery Street.
A planning application to build 39 new homes on the Nelson Street car park, as part of the Canal Quarter plans, was submitted earlier this month.
Beyond Radio has contacted the council for comment.
Read more: Lancaster Canal Quarter revamp is officially backed by council - Beyond Radio
Plans go in for 39 new homes on Lancaster city centre car park - Beyond Radio
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