Plans for £70m office scheme in central Manchester
PLANS for a new £70m office scheme in the heart of Manchester have been submitted by Worthington Properties, part of the Lancashire-based Marcus Worthington Group.
The landmark office scheme will occupy a prime office location on Deansgate strategically positioned between the gateway to Spinningfields and Manchester’s civic core.
It will deliver 113,500 sq ft of Grade A office space and a further 12,100 sq ft of retail space over two units.
Replacing 123-127 Deansgate – also known as Lincoln House – formerly occupied by law firm Pannone, it will form an integral part of the wider redevelopment of Brazenose Street and Lincoln Square. Construction is expected to start in summer 2016.
Worthington Properties director Russell Worthington said: “This BREEAM Excellent scheme will deliver 113,500sq ft Grade A office floorplates on one of the busiest and most sought after locations in Manchester.
“It will make a welcome addition to this area of the city and will complement what is happening in Lincoln Square and its immediate surrounds.”
Glenn Howells Architects, which designed One St Peter’s Square and Vimto Gardens in Manchester and Salford respectively, was tasked with creating the impressive designs.
Dav Bansal, director added: “Paying homage to the industrial character of Deansgate with its red Victorian architecture, we are delighted with the contemporary yet strikingly calm approach to the design that compliments the centrepiece Grade I Listed John Ryland Library within this pivotal setting. It marks a significant opportunity on Deansgate and is a catalyst for the transformation of this area.”
Real estate agency Savills has been appointed to market the scheme.
James Evans, of Savills said:“The proposed building occupies one of the highest profile spots within the city.
“It will provide a visually stunning addition to Deansgate whilst offering occupiers highly efficient floorplates. We are of no doubt successful businesses within Manchester will recognise the benefits of locating to the development.”
Planning advice and guidance was provided by Deloitte Real Estate. Niall Alcock, assistant director added: “After a long period of relative inactivity, we are now seeing a number of commercial developments come forward to meet the strong demand for Grade A office space in the city centre.
“We expect that this demand will continue, bolstered by Manchester’s ongoing economic growth and initiatives such as the Northern Powerhouse.”
