SALE law firm Slater Heelis LLP has advised PJ Livesey on the purchase of land and buildings at Manchester Metropolitan University’s (MMU) Didsbury campus.

Contracts have been exchanged in an undisclosed deal, which will see the residential conversion specialist transform the 17 acre site as part of a mixed scheme.

This will include 42 new homes, together with the restoration and conversion of a Grade II listed administration building, Grade II listed Chapel and the retention of three more listed buildings. The scheme will provide 93 homes in total.

Anne Irwin, managing partner and commercial property lawyer at the law firm, led the team, which also included Nicola Deutsch. A

Anne has worked alongside PJ Livesey for 30 years, advising the company on a large number of significant projects, such as the award-winning Lancaster Moor scheme, the former Terry’s Chocolate Factory in York, along with sites as far afield as Norfolk and North Humberside.

She said: “The level of interest that’s already being shown in this scheme is phenomenal, which strongly indicates that this will be a hugely popular residential development that will bring a blend of new build units and sensitively restored properties to market.

“All parties involved worked closely together to ensure the transaction successfully crossed the line. PJ Livesey has a strong reputation for delivering schemes of this nature and we’re confident that this will be a prominent residential development in an ever-confident sector.”

James Woodmansee, PJ Livesey Group development director, commented: “Anne is an integral part of the PJ Livesey family. She has worked with the company for over 30 years and knows our business and the property industry inside and out.

“She is exceptional and a great asset to have on your side and we look forward to continuing our strong working relationship with her and Slater Heelis going forward in very exciting times.”

MMU, which was advised on the property disposal by Addleshaw Goddard, relocated from Didsbury to its new campus at Birley Field in the autumn of 2014. The move resulted in the university vacating three sites in Didsbury – the main campus, Simon Playing Field and the Broomhurst halls of residence.