Client: Muse Developments Islington Wharf is a canal-side residential development located in Manchester’s Ancoats district. The project consisted of 102 new homes, including a mix of modern apartments and townhouses arranged around a central courtyard. Ranging from three to ten storeys, the development complements the vibrant regeneration of the area, transforming it into one of Manchester’s most desirable residential locations. The site's proximity to the city centre, combined with its attractive waterside setting, has contributed to its popularity with both renters and homeowners. Services we provided Civil & Infrastructure Engineering Building Surveying Geotechnical & Ground Engineering Ground Investigation & Land Quality Structural Engineering Our Role BWB’s involvement in the Islington Wharf project included providing civil and structural engineering services and managing ground investigations and site surveys. Our team was brought in after the original project engineers went into administration, and we were tasked with taking the project over the line. Detailed investigations We began by conducting detailed ground investigations to understand the site’s geotechnical conditions, which were crucial given the development's proximity to the canal structure. Our findings informed the design of the building’s foundation systems, ensuring that the new structures would not adversely impact the canal’s integrity. The site’s close adjacency to the Manchester Canal required our engineers to carefully design foundation solutions that minimised vibrations and protected the canal walls. Structural excellence Our structural engineers then developed designs for the three residential blocks, which included traditional construction methods for the lower blocks and post-tensioned (PT) reinforced concrete framing for the ten-storey tower. The PT frame was designed to support the building’s height while providing flexibility in floor layout. We also managed coordination with the previous phases of the Islington Wharf development to ensure continuity in design and functionality. Challenging location The project’s proximity to the canal posed several engineering challenges, particularly regarding the impact of construction on the canal’s walls. Our team’s expertise in designing low-impact foundation systems was essential in overcoming these challenges and ensuring the development’s success.