MediaCityUK prepares to double in size during £1bn second phase

Greater Manchester’s MediaCityUK is set to double in size over the next 10 years under new plans to expand the site.

Proposals to add up to 10 new buildings at the scheme, with a development value of over £1bn, have today (June 7) been submitted to Salford City Council.

Phase two at MediaCityUK includes 540,000 sq ft of offices, 1,800 new apartments, retail and leisure space, and public areas with a pedestrian promenade.

Outline approval for the scheme was granted in 2006 on the condition that detailed proposals, including designs and specifications for all the new buildings, were brought forward in 2016.

Salford City Council’s planning committee is expected to consider the fresh plans in September.

MediaCityUK represents a joint venture between investment firms Peel Land and Property and Legal and General Capital, both of which share a long-term commitment to expanding the site. With phase one complete in 2011, the development is already home to 250 businesses, including broadcasters ITV and the BBC, Swedish multinational Ericsson, betting data company SIS and post-production firm dock10.

The Peel Group’s chief executive, Steven Underwood, said: “This application is another major step forward in the evolution of MediaCityUK.

“Our partnership with Legal and General Capital, alongside continued support from the public sector, provides a strong platform to deliver future development phases of the UK’s fastest growing hub for the creative and digital industries.”

He added: “MediaCityUK is a shining example of what can be achieved across the Northern Powerhouse, combining the talents of great people with ambition and vision.”

MediaCityUK: The buildings of phase two are shown in blue

Legal and General Capital’s managing director, Paul Stanworth, said he believes urban regeneration projects of MediaCityUK’s scale have the ability to make a huge impact on the local and national economy.

He continued: “Legal and General Capital saw this potential when we invested in the project last year and are excited to be working with The Peel Group together with key partners to put forward plans for the second phase.

“We hope to deliver much-needed homes, hubs for businesses and new retail, leisure and public spaces for residents, workers and visitors to enjoy.”

Construction at MediaCityUK continues with the Tomorrow building coming this summer and work on The Lightbox, a new apartment complex, due to begin in early 2017.

MediaCityUK’s managing director, Stephen Wild, commented: “We pride ourselves on having created much-loved buildings such as The Pie Factory and The Greenhouse.

“Phase two will provide a unique opportunity for a new generation of designs to complement what is already a thriving and vibrant destination.”

Speaking further, Stephen said the plans for phase two demonstrate the “huge potential for the MediaCityUK of 2026”, adding: “Like any city, we continue to grow in line with the needs of business.”

A team of architects headed up by Manchester-based masterplanners Chapman Taylor has been selected to produce designs for each plot.

The director of Chapman Taylor, Tim Partington, said: “MediaCityUK is already a leading international hub for the creative and digital sectors, a centre of learning and a visitor destination.

“Phase two will bring a new residential community supported by high quality public realm, leisure and retail facilities, ensuring that the development is a sustainable urban neighbourhood and an exemplar for the 21st Century.”