Backing ambition in a market that demands delivery
27th March, 2026
There is no shortage of ambition in Manchester’s housing market. The challenge, as ever, is turning that vision into reality.
For Ward Hadaway, that is where the “Backing Ambition” campaign is grounded. The Manchester housing team, led by partner Andrew Dunn, has spent the past year at the centre of that activity.
From its Manchester office, looking back on 2025 Ward Hadaway helped structure and bring forward residential development projects with a combined gross development value of more than £1bn, supporting the delivery of thousands of new homes. Alongside that, the team has worked on more than 1,600 new build home sales.
For Andrew, those numbers tell a broader story about the region. “They highlight the many sites acquired, infrastructure and ancillary community facilities delivered and housing projects we have ongoing as we proudly support the ambition of our region and our clients,” he says.
That support often comes down to the details that make or break a scheme. Plot sales, for example, remain a critical pressure point for developers balancing delivery targets with market realities. Rachel Garcia, Head of Manchester Plot Sales, points to the importance of consistency in keeping momentum. “Our dedicated teamwork means we constantly strive to find ways to make it happen for our clients to ensure they keep hitting their demanding sales targets,” she says.
Looking ahead, growth is firmly on the agenda, but with a measured approach. Oliver Bagnall, partner, emphasises the importance of building the right relationships as the team expands its footprint. “Our careful exposure to the sector means we take the time to nurture meaningful partnerships, and we are delighted to have been appointed to act for yet another significant developer who joins our growing first-rate client base,” he says.
The housing work sits alongside a broader push under the Backing Ambition banner, from supporting emerging talent through Manchester Rising Stars to ongoing engagement across sectors including hospitality and tech. It reflects a business that is part of the wider story of the city, not just advising on it from the sidelines.
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