Every two years Didsbury hosts The Didsbury Arts Festival…. a fantastic volunteer led community Arts event and this year we are delighted to be supporting as a Gold Sponsor. The theme this year is ‘Roots’ which seemed entirely appropriate for the many new residents putting down roots in our St James Park development at the heart of the village.

Over nine days the Festival Director Daniel Williamson will curate a mix of events and productions in various locations, including our St James Park marketing suite. The full programme will be launched in Spring and you can keep up to date here >

Maria Stripling, Chair of the DAF Board said: “The support of our gold sponsors provides an anchor to the festival and ensures its high quality. As we now go into the intensive programme development period we can be confident of delivering an event that exceeds expectations. This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever. Our aim is to make it an even more inclusive experience and to reach out to a wider and more diverse audience across Manchester, as well as to the local, south Manchester community.”

As well as the four gold sponsors DAF, a registered charity, is supported by a whole host of local organisations, individual patrons, friends and volunteers, who donate time, money, goods and services to ensure the festival’s success.

The project was named national ‘Conversion/Refurbishment Development of the Year’ at The Bricks Awards 2016 beating numerous big name corporates to the top spot.

Sales at The Residence York … the former Terry’s chocolate factory, continue to surpass all expectations with more than half the properties now sold.

The conversion is attracting discerning buyers and of the 18 penthouses initially available only three remain for sale.

It is a huge endorsement of our vision and it is wonderful to have people now living in this Grade II listed landmark.

The Residence, York has once again scooped another plaudit – named Best Large Development at the Yorkshire Residential Property Awards 2016.

The experienced panel of judges said: ”The conversion of the old Terry’s chocolate factory is a sensational scheme. The first phase shows a regard for the building’s heritage while creating contemporary apartments with great style and plenty of storage.

Specifically, it showcases PJ Livesey’s experience and sensitivity when dealing with historic buildings.”

Yorkshire Property Awards The Residence at York has been shortlisted for Development of the Year in the region’s Yorkshire Business Insider Property Awards 2016.

Henry Boots Developments has also been shortlisted in the Restoration / Regeneration category in the same awards for the transformation of wider site.

The conversion of the landmark listed buildings into a wide range of apartments together with the sensitive restoration and generous landscaping is creating a lovely new community in this wonderful location overlooking the famous York Racecourse.