What a relief! Big changes were announced this week; the architect who designed the overbearing towers has resigned. A Manchester architect, Steve Hodder, sent in by MCC to challenge the scheme in March after the unprecedented opposition to the planning application, has now been appointed to take things forward. The developers have released a statement saying that the scheme needs 'a fresh approach'. All of us agree: we must now wait to see what that approach will be - hoping that it is a design that respects and reflects the location of the site and its setting. It’s also to be hoped that the Council will also take immediate steps to put in place a proper policy for tall buildings in Manchester. BIG THANKS TO ALL WHO SUPPORTED THIS PETITION - YOU WERE BRILLIANT! The statement says: “Stephen Hodder and his team were brought in three months ago to contribute design ideas. “They are now focussed on submitting revised proposals for a successful mixed-use development at St Michael’s. In light of the overall response to the first proposal, it was clear that a different design approach was required. We reflected whether the original solution met the overall objectives for the site and Stephen Hodder was brought in as part of that challenge process. This led to an extensive review of the approach. Stephen Hodder’s involvement led us to a different philosophy which we believe will command a greater level of support and create a fantastic new development and destination in the city." Architects Journal: http://bit.ly/2sy9I21 Manchester Evening News: http://bit.ly/2sYxvZz PlaceNorthWest: http://bit.ly/2sy9I21 Manchester Confidential: http://bit.ly/2sJ9HGW