Peel secures new tenant at Media City UK

Satellite Information Services has announced plans to relocate its production and engineering facilities in London to Media City UK at Salford Quays.

SIS, which has been based at the Pie Factory in Media City UK since 2006, said it will take a minimum of 25,000 sq ft in commercial offices located above the new studio facilities at the heart of development.

Peel Media, a division of the Peel Group, said SIS will take on new and additional space at Media City UK, alongside further development of its facilities at Milton Keynes. SIS expects to have in excess of 100 staff working in Salford Quays.

Bryan Gray, chairman of Peel Media, developers and owners of Media City UK, said: "The company has a first class reputation within the broadcasting industry, and the experience and expertise of SIS staff will be a key component in what Media City UK has to offer. We look forward to working closely together."

David Holdgate, chief executive of SIS, added: "As well as co-locating with some key clients, including the BBC, we'll have the advantage of purpose built premises."

SIS joins BBC North and the University of Salford within the 36-acre first phase of the development and will take occupation of its new premises during 2011 to commence technical fit out. SIS will complete its relocation to Media City UK by 2013.

The BBC is set to move nearly 2,500 staff to Media City UK in 2011, including BBC Breakfast and five departments currently based in London including Radio 5 Live, children's, sport, learning and future media and technology.

In addition, the University of Salford will open a new higher education centre at Media City UK next year, housing 1,700 students and staff.

Peel said there is potential to utilise the entire 200-acre waterfront site at Salford Quays where Media City UK is based over the next ten years.

WHR and Cushman & Wakefield are joint letting agents at the high-profile 5m sq ft scheme. Details of the rental agreement was not disclosed.