The receivers were appointed earlier this month by lenders to the Vision Manchester special purpose vehicle set-up to develop the 37-storey scheme in Deansgate.

The sole director of Vision Manchester is Paul Rothwell.

Rothwell was also a director of Empire Property Concepts which changed its name to MCIOD Limited days before going into administration last year owing suppliers and subcontractors more than £500,000.

Rothwell is a director of nearly 100 firms listed at Companies House many of which are based at the Doncaster address of the former Empire Property Concepts.

Among the firms to file a notice of intention to appoint an administrator in the last two months are Featherfoot Globe, Featherfoot Bayer, Featherfoot Cuthbert House and Featherfoot Halton 5.

They are also special purpose vehicles set up to develop residential schemes in areas including Bolton, Newcastle and Newbury.

Domis Construction was lined-up to build the Vision scheme last year but the Enquirer understands the contractor walked away from the job at the enabling works stage following doubts over funding.