Luxury Penthouse Named After Friedrich Engels in Manchester
A luxury penthouse in Manchester named after Friedrich Engels has drawn criticism for commercializing the city's radical history. Located in Deansgate Square, the penthouse contrasts sharply with Manchester's high demand for affordable housing. Historical figure Engels, who studied the working class in the 19th century, would find this ironic.
A multimillion-pound luxury penthouse flat named after revolutionary socialist thinker Friedrich Engels has sparked criticism for repurposing Manchester's radical history for profit.
Located in the east tower of Deansgate Square, developed by Renaker, the penthouse is part of the 'New Jackson' skyscraper district.
The area, once a slum known for its overcrowded housing and poverty, is a stark contrast to the luxury living now promoted.
Engels, who spent over two decades in Manchester researching 'The Condition of the Working Class in England,' would likely be bemused by this development.
Despite Manchester's high demand for affordable housing, with over 15,000 applications on the waiting list, the penthouse is listed at £2.5m.
Another penthouse, 'The Turing,' named presumably after computer scientist Alan Turing, is also on the market for £2.5m.
Jonathan Schofield, a local guide, highlights the irony of the penthouse's location atop what was once dense, impoverished housing.
Manchester city councillor Gavin White acknowledges the city's need for more affordable housing amidst its historical context.