Bruntwood SciTech has submitted planning proposals for a £17 million transformation and expansion of Manchester One, the iconic tower located at the heart of Manchester’s innovation quarter.
The project, delivered by Bruntwood SciTech — a joint venture between Bruntwood, L&G and Greater Manchester Pension Fund — combines a full refurbishment of the existing 21-storey tower with a four-storey extension, bringing the total building size to 160,000 sq ft and introducing significant new amenities.
Manchester One currently hosts 30 businesses across its 131,000 sq ft of space. The works will see the building “reimagined as a modern, sustainable workspace while retaining its 1960s architectural heritage.”
The existing tower will undergo comprehensive modernisation. Windows across all 21 floors will be replaced with the facade fully refreshed, alongside rolling refurbishment of office floorplates and building cores, including lifts, stairs and washrooms. New secure cycle storage for 60 bikes will be provided alongside dedicated active travel facilities, including six showers and changing rooms, a heated drying room and locker storage.
The transformation will be delivered in partnership with Bridge Architects and Cubicworks, with works scheduled to complete in early 2028.
Matthew Morten, Building and Construction Director, at Bruntwood SciTech, said: “Manchester One has been an enduring fixture of the city for decades and is synonymous with Manchester’s skyline. These proposals represent our commitment to ensuring it remains both sustainable and inspiring, and the £17 million investment is a clear statement of intent about the building’s importance to both our portfolio and to Manchester.
“We’re reimagining this building with our customers at the heart of every decision. This transformation is about creating a best-in-class environment that helps businesses attract and retain the talent they need, supports work-life balance through dedicated wellness facilities and flexible workspace, and ultimately enhances productivity. It’s a place that continues to support not just work, but wellbeing, collaboration, sustainability and community.
“Manchester remains integral to our vision, and sustained investment here and across our cities is central to our growth strategy and our determination to provide the infrastructure that enables businesses and cities to thrive.”