Plans in for first phase of MIX MANCHESTER scheme

Plans have been submitted to Manchester City Council for the UK’s first airport-based science, innovation, and manufacturing campus.

MIX MANCHESTER is set to be one of the largest science, innovation and manufacturing campuses in the UK, delivering two million sq. ft. of high-quality space at Manchester Airport, the UK’s only airport science location.

When complete, MIX MANCHESTER is expected to create up to 8,000 jobs for the region across the 60-acre site, capable of delivering two million sq. ft. of employment space.

It is being developed in collaboration by Manchester Airports Group (MAG), Manchester City Council (MCC), Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF), and Beijing Construction Engineering Group (BCEG).

The first phase of MIX MANCHESTER will deliver detailed planning consent for more than 70,000 sq. ft. of flexible mid-tech workspace aimed at pioneering businesses, inclusive of amenity space.

Helen Ratcliffe, head of agency and development at MIX MANCHESTER, said: “The submission of our first planning application follows months of dedication, marking a key step forward in providing cutting-edge innovation and manufacturing space on a high-quality, technology-focused campus, with units scheduled for delivery from Q4 2027.

“Our vision for MIX MANCHESTER has been driven from the start by a dynamic joint venture partnership that is underpinned by Manchester City Council’s commitment to growth.

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“By seeking both detailed approval for the initial phase and outline permission for future expansion, we are laying the foundations for our truly transformative development that will support innovative start-ups and growing enterprises and create significant job opportunities within the local economy.”

Also included is a 1,500-space multi-storey mobility hub with cycle facilities and ground-floor commercial uses, alongside local infrastructure and community-shaping public realm.

The hybrid planning application includes outline planning permission for up to 500,000 sq. ft. of medium and large-scale advanced manufacturing space and 600,000 sq. ft. of R&D, office, lab and hotel uses.

CBRE acted as planning consultant for the scheme. JLL and Track Real Estate are appointed as agents for MIX MANCHESTER.