Printworks owner agrees on £22m transformation

Printworks Manchester is set for its first major transformation since its launch in 1999.

Plans for a £22m investment have been approved by owners DTZ Investors following planning approval by Manchester City Council last year.

The refurbishment of the iconic venue will include the installation of a 900m2 digital ceiling – ‘Europe’s largest.’

The immersive ceiling will also be complemented by a large interactive screen.

Alongside the internal transformation which will begin this month, the Printworks façade will also be given a facelift.

Ben Haller at DTZ Investors, said: “Printworks has shown resilience through the pandemic and refurbishing this iconic venue remains part of our vision for the asset.

“The leisure sector continues to transition as consumers seek the ultimate experience with technology redefining both expectations and possibilities.

“Consumers at Printworks will soon benefit from just that with a fully immersive and interactive environment on a scale not previously seen in the UK. This in turn will drive footfall and provide our tenants with the best opportunity for trade.”

DTZ Investors has also secured a new 20-year commitment to continue its ongoing partnership with Vue, which operate 23 screens at Printworks, including Europe’s second largest IMAX.

The cinema is set to undergo a multi-million-pound flagship refurbishment in tandem with the wider work.

Ben added: “Printworks has an exciting tenant-mix from day-time family entertainment to the evening and late-night offer and we are delighted to confirm Vue cinema has signed a new long-term commitment to the scheme.

“This, alongside our extensive refurbishment, point toward Printworks remaining a prime destination leisure venue for years to come”

DTZ Investors purchased the Printworks site in February 2017 from Land Securities for £108m.