Acquisition paves way to development of former Trafford Hilti HQ
An acquisition deal will lead to the development of a new mixed-use residential-led scheme at the former Hilti headquarters in Trafford.
It follows developer, Cole Waterhouse, exchanging on the acquisition of the site.
The plot, which currently includes a 31,000 sq ft office building previously occupied by Hilti, is located within the 215-acre Trafford Wharfside regeneration zone being promoted by Trafford Council.
Cole Waterhouse exchanged on the purchase of the property and its associated land from Hilti for an undisclosed sum.
The transaction was handled by Colliers on behalf of Hilti.
The construction equipment, software, and services specialist will relocate its Manchester headquarters to No.1 Circle Square on Oxford Road in Manchester.
The acquisition builds on Cole Waterhouse’s growing portfolio in Trafford and Salford.
In 2021, the developer completed No. 1 Old Trafford, located next to the Wharfside Metrolink stop.
The £73m development comprises 354 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments alongside two commercial units.
Designed by Jon Matthews Architects, the scheme is set over two towers, rising to 15 and 18 storeys tall, which are connected by a centralised lobby area with residential amenity and a landscaped podium garden.
More recently, the developer’s joint venture with Taurus Investment Holdings opened the doors to Eda (Erie Dock Apartments), a 290-home Build-to-Rent development in nearby MediaCity.
Designed exclusively for the rental market by Chapman Taylor architects and built by Domis Construction, the highly sustainable, 29-storey tower is the tallest building on Salford Quays.
Simon Gallanders, Managing Director at Cole Waterhouse, said: “The Trafford Wharfside masterplan, which is ambitious in its scale and vision, will transform the area by creating up to 5,000 high quality new homes, celebrating the Manchester Ship Canal waterfront, and incorporating Manchester United’s proposals to build a world class new stadium at the centre of this burgeoning community.
“Our strategic acquisition of the former Hilti headquarters will play a key part in the council’s long term masterplan.
“Our delivery of No. 1 Old Trafford and nearby Eda showcases our proven experience in bringing to life exceptional residential developments, with highly sought after amenities, and most importantly where people want to call home. We are now working up plans for the scheme and will look to submit a detailed planning application in autumn 2024.”
The Wharfside regeneration zone spans east to west from Trafford Road to the Imperial War Museum, and north to south from the ship canal to the railway line, including Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium.
