Shores Fold

Shores Fold is a landmark residential development in South Manchester, with 57 family homes in a suburban setting. DYSE provided civil and structural engineering services from early feasibility studies through to construction, which helped to work out access to a difficult site. As this new residential area is next to Highfield Country Park, it was important to ensure that it didn’t cause any issues to the wildlife or visitors to the park.

The site was unoccupied on the edge of Levenshulme and Holmes Chapel, bordered by 70 acres of parkland and connected to the Fallowfield Loop cycle route. The location is ideal for those who like city living but need a more community, family-friendly feel, however, it also presented some challenges: tight site access, complex ground conditions and a need for sustainable infrastructure.

DYSE developed structural strategies for each type of house, using traditional load-bearing masonry combined with modern detailing.

Below ground, we designed a drainage scheme incorporating green Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) such as bio-retention areas, green roofs and attenuation systems to manage surface water efficiently and responsibly. The adoptable road network and external works were engineered to integrate seamlessly with the housing layout, ensuring durability and compliance.

This approach allows for a balance between buildability and performance and by working in collaboration with ARCD, we could make sure that structural detailing support open-plan layouts and larger windows without compromising on stability and safety.

We used 3D modelling and BIM coordination to visualise solutions and resolve constraints before siteworks started. Regular reviews of designs allowed us to focus on aligning structural and civil elements with sustainability goals. Having a proactive approach like this reduces risk and accelerates approvals and signoffs, allowing for smoother delivery on site.

Shores Fold is now a thriving new community, with Phase 1 sold out and Phase 2 underway. The development delivers high-quality homes in a green, accessible location, sustainable infrastructure that supports long-term resilience and a structural and civil design that balances aesthetics and cost.