Manchester Council required 50 solid, cast iron planters in three sizes: 800 x 800mm, 1,000 x 1,000mm and 1,200 x 1,000mm.
They were destined for different locations in the city centre and needed to be portable by forklift so that they could be moved around for different events. Another design requirement was the inclusion of the Manchester bee logo on the side panels.
Given these design parameters and working closely with the project team, we were able to draw plans that would enable forklift tines to fit underneath and between the feet for lifting purposes.
The designs were submitted to Manchester Council and, with their approval, we moved on to the manufacturing process. The pattern making, moulding, casting, fettling and painting processes were all completed within the tight 16-week lead time specified.
David Ludlam , the project lead for Manchester Council’s Neighbourhood Services, said:
"Following their appointment, we worked closely with both operational and design staff at the foundry who were all extremely helpful in achieving what we consider to be a successful design. We visited the foundry and observed the manufacturing process from the production of the moulds to the casting of containers. Hargreaves produced a programme for the manufacture and delivery of the containers, which they met. The containers were installed in January 2017 and have received favourable comments from residents and visitors to the city. The Manchester Bee cast on the side of the containers has now become a major emblem representing the city"
