Manchester Uni submits plans to build retail & leisure space


The University of Manchester and developer Bruntwood have submitted plans for the second phase of the £50m Manchester Business School redevelopment.

The plans include the creation of 45,000 sq ft of retail and leisure space within the existing precinct centre, which would house a selection of retail, food and leisure outlets for staff, students and visitors to the business school.

The plans also include the refurbishment of 200,00 sq ft of Manchester Business School facilities and a new Learning Library and Enterprise Zone.

A hotel and enhanced Manchester Business School Executive Education Centre are being developed as part of phase one, which was granted planning consent in April 2013.

Head of Retail and Leisure at Bruntwood, Toby Sproll said, “The creation of a vibrant retail and leisure offer as part of the wider redevelopment of Manchester Business School is vital.

'Not only is there strong demand for a great retail mix from the University’s students, staff, workers and local residents, the site is a key strategic location in the Oxford Road Corridor.”

If planning permission is approved the construction work will begin in 2015 and the development will open during 2016.