‘Series of parties’ in talks about The Hive

Argent is reporting keen interest in its 80,000 sq ft office building in the heart of Manchester's Northern Quarter, ahead of its launch on Thursday 7 October.

Arts Council England has already taken 20,000 sq ft at The Hive and Studio Venues occupies 10,000 sq ft of space.

Oliver Butler, from Argent, said: "We have seen a significant improvement in the market recently. Potential occupiers are really buying into the green credentials at The Hive, including the sedum rooftops, natural ventilation and energy efficient systems. The internal bike store is also proving to be very popular, as more and more people are choosing to leave the car at home and travel to work on their bikes. We are talking to a number of big name occupiers at the moment and we are extremely positive about the future of the scheme."

Daniel Harris, from letting agent Daniel Harris & Co, added: "It's quite a funky space and we're talking to a series of parties about the space which is unique and meets the requirements of a diverse and real mix of users.

"The Northern Quarter currently has a mix of IT, design, and fashion companies, so it's about what else there is and The Hive is a much more quality building for the area."

Bardsley Construction was appointed as the main contractor for The Hive.

Colliers CRE is joint letting agent on the building.