OBI plans major refurb of Manchester’s Express Building
OBI Property has submitted a planning application on behalf of private clients to fully refurbish Manchester’s grade two-listed Express Building, with the 81,000 sq ft building set for a comprehensive overhaul.
The building in Ancoats in the city centre, which dates back to 1939, will be fully stripped out, with a full redesign of the building’s reception including a spiral staircase linking the ground and first floors. A new mezzanine level will also be installed on the building’s sixth floor.
It is understood the refurbishment will get underway early next year, subject to planning, and complete by late autumn. A main contractor appointment is expected in the New Year.
Designed by Ben Adams Architects, the new office space will be targeted at digital and tech occupiers once complete.
The professional team for the project also includes OBI Property as leasing agent, project manager, cost consultant and contract administrator; Tier Consult as structural engineer; Zerum as M&E and planning consultant; and Stephen Levrant Heritage Architecture as heritage consultant.
James Bostock, building consultancy, OBI Property said: “Express Building is a Manchester landmark and it is incredibly exciting to be involved in breathing a new lease of life into the well-know and much-loved building.
“Our intention is to raise the bar in Manchester; combining efficient, super connected workspace, with unrivalled occupier amenities in one of the most dynamic areas of the city centre.”
The Express Building was sold by American owner A&A Investments to Wittington Investments, with Metis Real Estate as advisors, for £10.5m in March this year.
A&A first purchased the building for £20m in 2007.