BBC puts Oxford Road HQ up for sale
PROPERTY agent Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has been appointed to market the BBC’s studios in Oxford Road in Manchester.
The 5.4-acre New Broadcasting House site is being sold as part of the corporation’s move to purpose built northern headquarters at MediaCity in Salford Quays.
The building will be available for redevelopment at the end of 2011.
Peter Skelton, strategic development director at LSH Manchester, said: “This is a significant step forward in the redevelopment of what has been earmarked as one of the most important large-scale, strategic development sites in the city centre.
“The downward shift in the property market in recent years has had a negative impact on development projects, with very few sites – particularly of this magnitude – being released for sale. While the redevelopment of BBC site is still some way off, it is vital for Manchester’s future prosperity that we get it right.”
He added: “Having already identified the anticipated demand in respect of employment, housing and infrastructure, the sale represents a unique opportunity for an accomplished developer to add value to the overall regeneration of the city by identifying and delivering a blend of uses that the market wants, and that visitors, residents, local businesses and the council can be proud of.”
LSH is seeking initial expressions of interest before moving on to best bids, and hopes to conclude a sale in 2011.
