Shipping containers create new offices

FORMER shipping containers have been converted into bespoke office space on a new digital content complex named the Sharp Project.

New East Manchester has now welcomed 11 tenants to the venue in Newton Heath including ABF Pictures, Red Handed Cameras and Project:Simply.

The regeneration organisation intends to create affordable business space which is due to be completed by autumn.

The containers can be rented for £40 a week for a single unit (160 sq ft) and £75 for a double (320 sq ft) which includes a service charge and business rates. 

The glass-fronted unfurnished units come complete with power sockets and broadband connection.

Sue Woodward, director for the Sharp Project, said: “This has been extremely well received by the sector and we’ve had a tremendous amount of interest just through word of mouth, with very little marketing.

“The shipping containers are part of our affordable and flexible ‘easy in, easy out’ philosophy.  

“The modular design is perfect for maximising space, look great and are really popular as so cost effective – it’s fantastic to see a new community starting to emerge.”

Eddie Smith, New East Manchester’s chief executive, said: “New East Manchester is proud to be delivering a building that will offer a world-class infrastructure for digital companies with a unique ability to tap into incredibly fast broadband connectivity starting at 1GB which, until now, was unheard of.

“We have the potential to help up to 85 digital businesses and eventually create 550 jobs in the digital sector here in east Manchester. 

“The level of interest in the building reflects the latent demand for this kind of affordable workspace which is clearly responding to the needs of young, dynamic companies and provides an ideal environment for collaborative working.“

In total the Sharp Project offers 15,000 sq ft of office space in addition to sound stages, production space, a music studio and a ‘winter garden’ communal space.

The former Sharp warehouse is currently undergoing a £16.5 million refurbishment funded by Manchester City Council, the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA) and the European Regional Development Fund.