This is the biggest statement in architecture and development that Manchester has seen in modern times
– Gary Neville

A 200-bed five star hotel and 30,000sq ft (2,800sq m) of leisure space will dominate the latest architectural project being developed by former Manchester United stars Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville.

Restaurants, bars, shops and three anchoring public squares will feature at the St. Michael’s scheme in Manchester, which Neville has vowed will be “the biggest statement in architecture and development that the city has seen in modern times”.

Architecture studio Make have designed the 700,000sq ft (65,000sq m) mixed-use project, which will feature two towers – one for the hotel and luxury residences and one for offices. They will be 31 and 21 storeys high respectively and feature arched crowns.

Studio Plant Intelligent Environments will landscape the site, including an outdoor covered garden over multiple levels, linked by a 15m “architectural staircase” edged by bars and restaurants.

The scheme, which would cost an estimated £200m (US$267.6m, €237.6m) has proven controversial with English Heritage due to the height of the towers and their proximity to historic buildings such as the town hall and Central Library. A public consultation will be held later in the year.

The footballers’ involvement comes through their Jackson’s Row Development Partnership. The real estate firm is working with Manchester City Council, the Beijing Construction and Engineering Group and developer Rowsley Ltd. The latter was a key investor in Neville and Giggs’ sport-themed Hotel Football project.

Proud to finally unveil the plans of " St Michaels " this morning. Please follow @stmichaelsmcr for information and updates .

— Gary Neville (@GNev2) July 28, 2016