Plans for a groundbreaking airport-based science, innovation, and manufacturing campus, named MIX MANCHESTER, are currently in public consultation.
The project promises to create up to 8,000 jobs, transforming a 60-acre site near Manchester Airport into one of the largest science and innovation campuses in the UK.
Draft Strategic Regeneration Framework
The joint venture partnership behind MIX MANCHESTER is pushing forward with its ambitious plans for an airport-based campus. The project’s draft Strategic Regeneration Framework (SRF) has received approval in principle from Manchester City Council’s Executive Committee.
The SRF, prepared by planning consultant CBRE, outlines a development masterplan created by Sheppard Robson over two years. The public consultation will play a crucial role in refining these plans further.
Public Consultation Process
An eight-week public consultation period is now live, allowing local residents, the community, and key stakeholders to voice their opinions on the masterplan.
Feedback can be submitted via the MIX MANCHESTER website, email, or a freephone number. Local in-person events are also scheduled this September to gather community input.
Project Vision and Impact
Gareth Jackson, group property director at Manchester Airports Group, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “We are thrilled to gain approval in principle for our masterplan for this ambitious site.”
Located off the new Enterprise Way link road, the 60-acre site will be developed in phases, subject to planning approval. Upon completion, it will provide two million sq ft of advanced manufacturing and science space and create up to 8,000 jobs.
Driven by occupier demand, a range of building types, including advanced manufacturing, research and development facilities, and office spaces, will be available. Complementary amenities such as hotels and leisure facilities are also planned.
Support from Local Authorities
Cllr Gavin White described MIX MANCHESTER as a significant investment that enhances Manchester’s reputation as a hub for science and innovation.
The development will not only create thousands of jobs but also support the ongoing regeneration of Wythenshawe communities, bolstering economic growth in emerging industries.
Joint Venture Partnership
The MIX MANCHESTER project is a joint effort among several key players: Columbia Threadneedle Real Estate, Manchester Airports Group (MAG), Beijing Construction Engineering Group International (BCEGI), and Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF).
A substantial £30m joint venture capital has already been invested in the site’s highways and utilities infrastructure, making it a ‘shovel-ready’ site ready for further development.
High voltage electricity and utilities connections are in place, along with a new pedestrian bridge linking to the main airport site and the construction of three new hotels.
Infrastructure Developments
The construction of the Enterprise Way link road is a major development milestone, offering improved connectivity to the main airport site.
High voltage electricity and utilities connections have been established, along with the construction of a new pedestrian bridge and three hotels on the site.
These infrastructure developments underscore the project’s commitment to creating a well-connected and fully equipped campus to attract businesses and talent.
Community Engagement
Wythenshawe residents living near the site will receive direct communications detailing how they can participate in the consultation process.
The project team is keen to engage with the wider community to ensure the plans align with local needs, making community feedback a pivotal element in refining the masterplan.
The MIX MANCHESTER project, currently in public consultation, represents a transformative investment in Manchester’s scientific and industrial landscape.
With the potential to create up to 8,000 jobs and bolster local economic growth, the project is poised to make a lasting impact on the region.