Plans launched to convert former Co-op HQ into 196-room upscale lifestyle hotel
New Century House, the former headquarters of Manchester-based Co-op Group, is to be converted into a 196-room hotel under proposals launched today (September 27).
The Grade II-listed 14-storey classic modernist 60s building was built for the Co-operative Insurance Society and later became the group HQ.
Situated in Manchester’s NOMA district, next to Victoria rail station, the plans envisage a stunning roof terrace restaurant and bar offering outstanding views across the city. Conference and leisure facilities would be created in the basement.
The proposed hotel would offer guests a superb location, with access to the city centre’s prime retail and office core and the 23,000-capacity AO Arena within five minutes’ walk.
CGI of proposed rooftop bar and terrace
NOMA is already home to a range of leading businesses including Amazon, The Co-operative Group, ath-leisure brand Adanola, Material Source, Arcadis IBI Group.
Global financial services group BNY (Bank of New York Mellon) recently announced that it is relocating its 2,000-strong Manchester team to 4 Angel Square, where it is letting the entire 200,000 sq ft building.
The new hotel will further complement the existing neighbourhood next door to New Century Hall, the refurbished music venue, eclectic food hall and the DBS Institute.
NOMA is also building a reputation as a must-visit dining destination, with the recent addition of Skof, the dining restaurant by Chef Tom Barnes, which has earned rave reviews from acclaimed food critics and a spot in the 2024 Michelin Guide since opening this year.
MEPC, the Development and Asset Manager for the NOMA estate, is working with hotel and leisure specialist practice Jenics to secure a hotel partner, ahead of a formal planning proposal being submitted to Manchester City Council in the coming months.
Dan Hyde, Development Director at MEPC, said: “New Century House is a Manchester landmark and we believe now is the right time to bring it back to life as a hotel. It’s a natural next step for our growing neighbourhood with the building located either side of BNY at 4 Angel Square and the destination venue of New Century Hall.”
Jeremy Collins, of Jenics, said: “Manchester has huge international visitor pull thanks to its global connectivity, world leading universities and sporting and cultural assets. New Century House is a rare and outstanding opportunity and will be a tremendous addition to Manchester’s visitor economy offer, both from a business and leisure perspective.
“NOMA has adopted a flexible approach to secure a ‘best fit’ occupier by way of either a virtual freehold sale or lease disposal. This approach will drive positive interest from a range of operators.”
