Co-op takes wraps off £100m HQ building

THE Co-operative Group took the wraps off the design for its new £100m headquarters in Manchester.

The £13bn turnover group, the largest consumer co-operative in Europe, has had its base in the North West for 150 years.

The new 16-storey, 320,000 sq ft  head office, to be designed by 3D Reid, will be built on land on Miller Street, opposite the Co-operative Insurance tower.

Chief executive Peter Marks said that the project would reflect the ethical values of the organisation in its design and construction.

Key features of the building will include meeting the highest environmental standards and providing the city with an architectural landmark

Mr Marks said: “The Co-operative Group was born and raised in Manchester.  Our decision to build our new headquarters here is another clear sign of the renaissance of our business and our confidence in the future. 

“Our new head office will not only enable us to continue our commercial contribution to city life but will also play a part in helping to make Manchester a 21st century leader in sustainable development.”

The new headquarters will represent the first phase in the redevelopment and regeneration of the Group’s 20-acre site, located at the city’s Northern Gateway and bounded by Miller Street and Corporation Street. 

The group will be encouraging staff to make full use of the excellent public transport facilities close to the site and car parking provision will be reduced.

Mr Marks added:  “We recognise the historic importance of our present premises and we occupy a number of buildings on the site.  However, they do not provide the kind of working environment which we want for our business and our employees in the years ahead.

“The new building will be good for our business, good for our staff, good for the communities which surround it and good for Manchester.”

The group is planning to submit a planning application to Manchester City Council in July.

If planning permission is granted, work will start on the building at the beginning of next year with occupation scheduled for mid-2012.

Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, said: “We are delighted that an organisation as closely associated with Manchester as the Co-operative Group remains so committed to the city.  This welcome investment will act as a catalyst for further employment and regeneration opportunities in the surrounding area.”