City Centre Campaigner Anthony McCaul and City Centre Town Hall Chief Pat Karney are tonight hailing the historic decision by Manchester’s Planning Committee to turn down the Ian Simpson Star-Trek-inspired Peel apartment block at Jackson’s Wharf.

Councillor Pat Karney said: “This is a great victory for residents and everyone involved in the campaign to stop Peel’s development. Common sense has prevailed. Peel have done great things in Manchester, it’s just a shame that on this occasion they’ve treated the Planning Committee and local residents with contempt.”

City Centre Labour Campaigner Anthony McCaul added: “This is great news. I’m pleased that we’ve been able to deliver for local residents. The campaign has had great help from local celebs including James Hickman, Mike Harding, Pride of Manchester. This is an issue which has united Castlefield. This decision is a clear signal to Peel and I hope that they will now come to the table and work with local residents and representatives on the future of this site, the historic heart of Manchester.”