17 New Wakefield Street

17 New Wakefield Street is a 109-meter residential tower containing 525 student bedrooms distributed across four stepped towers spanning 37 floors. The structure rises in stages, with each section stepping back to create a tiered profile.

Construction began in 2010 following approval of revised plans for a 106-meter residential tower and finished in September 2012. The project marks the city's expansion of student housing during a period when Manchester was modernizing its educational facilities.

The building was developed to serve the student population and has become a visual landmark in the area surrounding the University of Manchester. Its tiered, stepped form has become a defining feature of the local cityscape.

The building sits close to the city center with straightforward access to public transportation and university facilities. Keep in mind this is private student housing with limited public access.

The building has undergone multiple name changes, starting as Student Castle before being renamed to Liberty Heights and then to Bridgewater Heights. These shifts reflect the changing private management and evolving identity of the residence over time.

Location: Manchester

Inception: September 2012

Architects: Stephen Hodder

Official opening: 2012

Floors above the ground: 37

Height: 109 m

GPS coordinates: 53.47340,-2.24177

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:24