Manchester is living up to all expectations of growth and an improvement in the urban scene.
It is not just a case of building more space but the quality of the buildings that are being constructed. They have improved the whole city with a major role going to Allied London that pushed through Spinningfields which is now such a success as an office and retail destination.
A key role has been played by the Metrolink and the coming linking of Piccadilly and Victoria stations is going to bring a substantial benefit to all travellers, as will the rebuilding of Oxford Road railway station.
However, this is only one aspect of the new era because the concept of a northern corridor of cities (from Liverpool to Hull) brings a huge role to Manchester. It also underpins Peel’s efforts to regenerate Liverpool and will surely lift Manchester airport into a higher league internationally. Therefore, improving the transport links to the airport and developing Airport City with the Chinese makes considerable economic sense.
Ahead of these events, south Manchester has already improved with a stronger market and new speculative development. In a rising market, the strategic locations of places such as Stockport come to the fore and attract developers and occupiers.
Perhaps one scheme epitomises the confidence in Manchester, the refurbishment of the Royal Exchange by Starwood which will bring 9,290 sq.metres (100,000 sq.ft.) of offices.
Mark Canning of Canning O’Neill feels the quality of this scheme symbolises where the city centre is going.