Duo promoted to deliver and fill £1bn MIX Manchester

Manchester Airport Group’s Helen Ratcliffe and Emily Fleet have been made head of agency and development and head of delivery respectively, as the 60-acre regeneration project gathers pace.

The joint venture between MAG, Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Pension Fund, and Beijing Construction Engineering Group International wants to redevelop land close to the airport into a campus for advanced manufacturing, science and innovation.

With a strategic regeneration framework in place and a consultation on plans for the first 1.2m sq ft of floorspace underway, MIX has promoted Ratcliffe and Fleet as the project ramps up.

Ratcliffe will lead on the development strategy for the £1bn GDV MIX, overseeing the masterplan, investment phasing, and relationships with agency teams.

Fleet has responsibility for translating the vision for MIX into reality on the ground, ensuring the phased programme of development is delivered efficiently, sustainably and in line with the scheme’s wider economic and social ambitions, according to the JV.

Both have been with MAG since 2022 and have seen the vision for the 60-acre site evolve from the office-led Airport City to MIX.

Phase one of MIX will feature a 1,500-space multi-storey car park and a clutch of mid-tech units as well as advanced manufacturing, R&D, laboratory, and office space.

Helen Ratcliffe, head of agency and development for MIX Manchester, said: “MIX Manchester is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a globally significant innovation and manufacturing campus for the North West.

“Being part of this strengthened leadership structure will mean we are well-positioned to move from consultation and planning into construction and occupation, supporting Greater Manchester’s ambitions to become a leading UK and global hub for innovation-led growth.”

Emily Fleet, head of delivery for MIX Manchester, said: “This is a hugely exciting moment for MIX Manchester as we move into the delivery phase of the project.

“Being appointed head of delivery sends a strong signal that the partnership is investing in the leadership and capability needed to bring this extensive scheme forward at pace and with confidence. Our focus is firmly on turning our masterplan into a thriving, sustainable hub that delivers real benefits for businesses, communities and the region.”

JLL and Track Real Estates are appointed as agents for MIX Manchester.