Property firm Bruntwood has celebrated a key milestone in the construction of a new commercial office development at Didsbury Technology Park and revealed that more than half the available space has already been let.
The project team led by main contractor North Midland Construction has completed the ‘super-structure’ of the building and celebrated it with a ‘topping out’ ceremony – a construction industry custom which originated in Scandinavia and takes place when the final structural beam is laid.
The site will become home to a cluster of high-growth, science and technology businesses which will positively impact both the local and wider regional economy. The entire site is expected to be developed and occupied by 2020.
“It’s incredibly exciting to see the building rising out of the ground and taking shape on site,” said Bruntwood sales director Andrew Butterworth.
“The site is ideally located, with outstanding connectivity to key hubs including Manchester City Centre, the Oxford Road Innovation District, and Manchester Airport.
“A community focus on excellence and growth is also being cultivated in partnership with the park’s resident industry leaders like Siemens. This collaborative culture creates a vibrant environment where businesses thrive.
“Once complete, the development will provide world-class facilities which will enhance the region’s provision of outstanding science and tech facilities – bolstering the provision of future-fit space to meet the needs of this fast-growing sector.”
The first phase of the wider development plan will house 20,000 sq ft of Grade A space at the park.
Bruntwood, Siemens and Manchester City Council have formed a strategic partnership to deliver Didsbury Technology Park, which occupies nine acres of the Siemens Campus at West Didsbury. A total of 92 new homes will be built there by PJ Livesey.
Once complete, the site will provide over 155,000 sq ft of new purpose-built commercial workspace as well as a multi-storey car park.
Robert Moyle, executive chairman of North Midland Construction PLC, said: “We are delighted to have been entrusted by Bruntwood to undertake this prestigious contract and it further consolidates our increasing presence in the North West.
“Progress on site to date is good with the project being delivered to programme. All the parties involved are working collaboratively together to deliver a successful project and build a lasting relationship for the future.”