The Redbricks: The unique estate by the Mancunian Way and the fear it won't survive

In the shadow of Manchester's tallest buildings lies an estate home to one of the city's most unique communities. A footbridge over Mancunian Way is all that separates the glittering Deansgate Square development - home to Premier League footballers and social media influencers - from Hulme 's Redbricks estate.

Yet just a short walk from the huge glass towers, life is rather different. While the city centre has evolved and expanded beyond recognition over the last decade, the estate has remained untouched. Redbricks, also known as the Bentley House estate, is made up of six rows of art deco flats spread across three streets - Rockdove Avenue, Hunmanby Avenue and Humberstone Avenue.

Built in the aftermath of the Second World War, it has long been home to a proud and thriving community. Unlike the infamous Crescents, the Redbricks survived the redevelopment of Hulme during the 1990s.

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In the ensuing years, the estate saw an influx of bohemian artists and activists, some of whom had been squatting in the Crescents. Community gardens were set up, while a bomb shelter beneath the blocks was transformed into an underground cinema and social space - before the council eventually shut it down.

Many of those who live on the estate today were drawn in by its alternative culture and activities. While some say the Redbricks has changed, its radical spirit still burns bright.

As the city centre creeps closer, locals have been forced to fight for what they hold dear. In 2019, they successfully fought plans to destroy a treasured green space as part of the £10 million redevelopment of a nearby junction connecting Princess Road, Mancunian Way and Medlock Street.

Manchester Council eventually agreed to spare Rockdove