Major refurb underway at The Observatory

A MAJOR refurbishment scheme which will release two floors of Grade A office space at Manchester city centre’s The Observatory has begun.

Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), which operates one of the largest pension schemes in the UK, said the latest works will deliver 7,121 sq ft of space on both the first and third floors plus a 4,451 sq ft suite on the second floor, creating 18,693 sq ft of accommodation.

Located on Cross Street, The Observatory is at the heart of Manchester’s Central Business District and attracted several high profile tenants in 2015 including Aviva, Markel and Deerns UK, following earlier refurbishment works.

Alex Turner, deputy head of property and offices fund manager at USS, said: “The Observatory already benefits from an exceptional location at the core of Manchester city centre.  The completion of comprehensive refurbishment works this summer will enable the release of two floors of prime, Grade A office space, appealing to a range of occupiers.”

The refurbishment is due to complete this summer.

Savills and Bilfinger GVA are joint letting agents at the property.

Richard Lowe, office agency director at Savills, adds: “The Observatory continues to appeal to occupiers as it combines a Grade A specification and prime location with a very competitive rent.  We are confident the newly refurbished accommodation will attract strong interest.”