5 stop passenger lift refurbishment in a South Manchester Residential Development
Southmoor is a landmark residential development in South Manchester, originally a high-rise council tower block, the building stood vacant for four years before undergoing a £2 million transformation into a modern residential complex comprising 72 stylish apartments.
The redevelopment created 64 one-bedroom apartments and eight studio apartments, becoming one of the first large-scale residential regeneration projects of its kind in the area. Demand for the apartments was immediate, with LPC Living receiving significant interest following the launch. The development was fully occupied within just two weeks, and due to its success, all apartments were subsequently sold to residents after an initial rental period.
With the building now fully occupied and home to a thriving residential community, maintaining reliable vertical transportation was essential. The development is served by two passenger lifts, each operating independently to serve separate floor groups. One lift serves the even-numbered floors (Ground, 2, 4, 6 and 8), while the second serves the odd-numbered floors (Ground, 1, 3, 5 and 7).
Following the successful refurbishment of the odd-floor lift in 2024, TJ Lifts were approached to carry out a comprehensive lift modernisation of the even-floor lift to improve reliability, performance and long-term serviceability.
The existing equipment had reached the point where a lift modernisation package represented the most cost-effective and sustainable solution. Rather than undertaking a complete lift replacement, a targeted refurbishment programme was developed to retain the existing lift structure while replacing the key mechanical and electrical components responsible for performance, safety and reliability.
The scope of works included the complete replacement of the lift control system, providing a modern platform capable of supporting improved diagnostics, enhanced operational efficiency and easier future maintenance. Associated rewiring works were carried out where necessary, together with the replacement of all trailing flexes and the installation of a new shaft positioning system to ensure accurate floor levelling and smooth operation.
Passenger experience was also significantly enhanced through the installation of a new car operating panel, new landing operating panels at every floor and new landing position indicators. These upgrades delivered a more modern appearance while improving usability and reliability for residents.
From a mechanical perspective, the project involved the replacement of the winding machine, suspension ropes, overspeed governor and governor rope. Modifications were also undertaken to the balance weight arrangement to ensure compatibility with the new drive equipment and optimise overall lift performance.
To further improve safety and maintenance access within the lift shaft, new shaft lighting was installed throughout.
Careful planning and coordination were required throughout the project to minimise disruption to residents. As the building remained fully occupied during the works, communication with the property management team and residents was maintained throughout each stage of the programme.
The completed modernisation has successfully extended the operational life of the even-floor lift while bringing its performance in line with the previously refurbished odd-floor lift.
Residents now benefit from improved ride quality, more accurate floor levelling, enhanced reliability and a modernised user interface. The replacement of critical mechanical components has significantly reduced the risk of age-related failures, while the new control system provides improved fault diagnostics and greater long-term maintainability.
For the Property Management Company, the project delivers a future-proofed lift installation that supports the ongoing operation of one of South Manchester’s most successful residential regeneration developments. By investing in a lift refurbishment rather than full replacement, the client achieved a cost-effective solution that maximised the value of the existing asset while ensuring residents continue to enjoy safe, reliable and efficient lift service for years to come.
The successful completion of this project further demonstrates how strategic a lift refurbishment can provide substantial operational and financial benefits for residential property owners and management companies, extending equipment lifespan while improving the overall resident experience.
