Inside the Crusader Mill development from BBC2 doc Manctopia

Crusader Mill, which recently featured in the BBC2 documentary Manctopia, hit the headlines in 2017 when locals were given ‘first dibs’ on the loft-style apartments – and investors were banned.

Now, social impact developer Capital&Centric has released new images of the first apartment to complete at the development off Chapeltown Street.

The images show how the striking mill, built around 1830, is being restored into one and two bed apartments with exposed brickwork, original cast iron columns and wooden beams, and huge windows.

Along with neighbouring owner occupier community Phoenix, Crusader forms part of the emerging Piccadilly East neighbourhood, nestled between Piccadilly and Ancoats, which was recently named by The Times as one of the next greatest places to live.

“Crusader is packed with history, but that’s meant it’s been challenging,” said Capital&Centric co-founder Tim Heatley.

“Stuff that we couldn’t have ever foreseen that’s caused us and our buyers some delays.

“But ultimately we weren’t going to cut corners. This building is so iconic, with such great features, we have to do it justice.

“Once part of Manchester’s Cottonopolis, the building gives the loft apartments tons of industrial character that oozes from the exposed bricks, beams and huge windows that soak the apartments in light.

“This was the first project we brought forward in Piccadilly East – it’s our baby! – so it’s awesome to see it nearing completion.”

The first residents are anticipated to move into Crusader in March.

The final phase of apartments are now available to buy with two-beds starting at £299,000 and one-beds from £200,000, some of which are only available to First Time Buyers using the Help to Buy scheme.

All residents get access to Crusader’s courtyard, with green space, fire pits and barbecues, while some of the penthouse apartments have private roof terraces.

The apartments will be dog friendly and benefit from a 24/7 concierge.

“I’d not long started saving for a deposit when I saw Crusader Mill was available with Help to Buy so thought I’d have a nosey,” said first time Crusader buyer James Lomas.

“As soon as I saw it I completely fell in love and knew it was the one for me. So, I spoke to my parents and, after a bit of convincing, they agreed to provide the rest of the deposit.

“I wasn’t expecting to buy something so soon but there was no way I was missing out.”

Buyer Jo Beswick said the design and layout of the apartments are “really, really well thought out.

“The windows flood the room with light, the beams are just gorgeous and the exposed brick gives it character. We knew straight away this was the one for us!

“The whole aspect of it being for residents only is great.

“We wanted a community and we’re really excited to be here.”

Visit crusadermcr.com to find out more or visit a show apartment.