Stantec relocates in Manchester

The firm is taking 10,000 sq ft at 100 Barbirolli Square, consolidating its operations in the city into one central location. 

Stantec will relocate its Manchester staff from Tower 12 on Bridge Street and another office on Oxford Street. 

The company, which has more than 28,000 employees worldwide, will be taking over the seventh floor of AEW Investors’ 155,000 sq ft 100 Barbirolli Square. 

Stantec’s new Manchester office will see engineers, planners, economists, ecologists, acousticians, designers, and others come together under one roof. 

Stantec is in the midst of a growth journey and acquired Manchester planning practice Barton Willmore in 2022. Barton Willmore had been based out of 2,100 sq ft at Tower 12 for almost 12 years. 

Dan Mitchell, planning director, at Stantec, said: “We’ve enjoyed years of success from our Bridge Street and Oxford Road offices, but our rapid growth means we need to expand.  

“100 Barbirolli Square is the perfect new home for our friendly and professional teams in Manchester who will deliver vital development, resilience, and regeneration projects.” 

Stantec will join law firm Brabners and professional services firm Xeinadin at 100 Barbirolli. Its new office will feature co-working space, as well as zones for social activity, team-building exercises, and general wellbeing.  

As well as providing a hub for existing staff, the move is aimed at attracting new talent, according to Stantec’s global chief operating officer Cath Schefer. 

“With so many incredible projects in the pipeline, we need to ensure we attract the best talent across a variety of important disciplines.,” she said.

“We know the next generation of engineers and designers prioritise wellbeing and inclusivity while having a dynamic, flexible workplace. Our new Manchester office will be a lively and aspirational hub right in the city centre.” 

JLL advised Stantec on the deal.  

Rhys Evans, associate director at JLL, said: “Stantec’s brief was to be centrally located, whilst being in a building which provided optimum flexibility for future growth.  

“100 Barbirolli perfectly aligns with Stantec’s aspirations for Manchester and provides easy access for staff and access to an abundance of outstanding amenities nearby”. 

OBI and Savills advised AEW. 

A joint statement from the retained agents said: “Demand for workspace at 100 Barbirolli Square remains buoyant as the scheme continues to attract occupiers searching for very well-located, high-quality workspace with strong sustainability credentials and excellent amenities.  

“We are actively engaged in detailed discussions with a number of new occupiers, and we anticipate completing the lease-up of 100 Barbirolli Square by the end of the year.” 

Claremont has been appointed to deliver the fit-out.

Claremont has been appointed to deliver the fit-out. Credit: via Stantec