Manchester is at a 'tipping point' - but it will 'never be done'

Manchester is dealing with 'growing pains' as it reaches a 'tipping point', a council boss has told investors and developers at a property convention in France. But Manchester council's director of growth said that the city is 'never done' when it comes to development.

Speaking at MIPIM expo in Cannes, Becca Herron set out the big developments coming to Manchester over the next two decades, including at Strangeways and in Wythenshawe. She also spoke of schemes on the outskirts of the city centre, such as at Holt Town.

She told an audience on Tuesday (March 12) that Manchester is 'holding up really well in the current economic climate' compared to other cities. But she spoke of 'challenges' in the local economy - some of which are a direct result of the successes the city has seen.

READ MORE: Deansgate skyscraper builder says there's more to come in Manchester

She said: "I don't think a city is ever done, is it? It will always continue to change and evolve.

"But it does feel like we're at a bit of a tipping point. I think that Manchester is holding up really well in the current economic climate compared to comparator cities. I suppose I would say we seem to almost be dealing with growing pains in a sense now."

The town hall boss said that demand for housing in the city continues to outstrip supply, meaning many residents are struggling to afford housing. And she spoke of difficulties in providing the transport, health, education and community facilities that is required.

However, she insisted that confidence in the local economy remains high, despite difficulties in securing investment. And she said that - despite predictions of the 'death' of the office market - demand for commercial and office space in Manchester is