City centre flats plans put on hold for now - because of the popularity of two bars

Ramona and The Firehouse are set to stay open a little while longer, with plans to build an apartment block on the Swan Street site now on hold due to the success of the venues.

Both spots, which were created by the team behind the likes of Rudy’s Pizza and Albert’s Schloss, were only supposed to be a temporary feature while plans for the apartments were developed.

But the site’s owners Capital&Centric, who also own the likes of Kampus, and Kamani Property, are holding off on the building plans for now.

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Co-owner Joel Wilkinson said: “The support from our guests, neighbours and the council since we opened last year has just been incredible. We’ve grown, adapted and adjusted through every stage of the pandemic. From click & collect to outside tables of six, to finally being open properly.

“We’re delighted to now have the opportunity to extend our stay here with the support or Capital&Centric and Kamani. This means we can keep doing what we are best at and work on our plans to create more exciting projects for Manchester.

“These projects will support Manchester thriving economy and culture, create jobs and support all the business infrastructure around us.”

Ramona, the tented beer garden, which is heated by fire pits, has become known for its Detroit-style pizza - not to mention its margaritas and huge range of mezcal. After opening last year, its Californian-inspired outdoor space gradually extended across the whole plot.

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Next door venue The Firehouse, in a former MOT garage, opened later with its raucous ‘runway parties’ and open-fire menu. The planning permission for the development