The main academic building, designed by architect Sheppard Robson, is described as a “sugar cube”.
Sheppard Robson associate partner Rupert Goddard said: “The design combines diverse public spaces with retained trees, strong sustainability credentials and innovative architectural design, and will become a landmark project for Hulme and the city."
The site – bordered by Stretford Road, Old Birley Street and Princess Road – has been earmarked for development since clearance in the 1990s.
Manchester Metropolitan University plans to move its Institute of Education and the Faculty of Health, Psychology and Social Care to a purpose-built campus in the centre of Hulme.
Over the past two years the University has hosted 50 consultation events with residents to help shape the New Birley Fields Campus proposals. In the most recent consultation exercise in December, 73% of residents thought a campus was a welcome addition to Hulme.
The university said it was addressing issues of concern such as the impact of an increased student population and traffic congestion.
John Cooper, planning director at Drivers Jonas Deloitte which presented a report to Manchester City Council on the university’s public consultation, said: “From the proposals that were originally presented in 2009, there has been a genuine response to the main issues raised by local people which is reflected in the final application.”
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