After a planned 18-storey office block stalled, developer Property Alliance Group (PAG) has reinvented its Axis office scheme in Manchester into a larger, upmarket apartment block.

The office block was planned for a small triangular plot next to Deansgate Locks through a joint venture with Development Securities, but that has now been changed to a 28-storey, cantilevered tower with 172 one, two and three-bed apartments with two penthouses on the top floor.

David Russell, PAG chairman, said: "Great new buildings have never just happened. They are conceived, designed, developed and built by people of commitment and vision.

"The quality and design detail of the building's external façade and interior is high on our agenda. Subject to planning, we look forward to creating Manchester's number one residence."

Subject to planning PAG hopes to start work in the autumn and finish within two years.