Manchester is to see huge investment to create a buzzing technological hub in the centre of the city to support start-ups entering the industry.
The birth place of the first computer to store program data electronically, Manchester is steeped in technological history. Now, thanks to government-backed organisation Tech North making the city its home, it will continue to promote its image as a major force in the world of tech.
Tech North will be located in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, an area not unlike Old Street, the part of London home to many of the city’s up-and-coming small tech firms.
On Thursday, a government-backed report examined the growth of technology “clusters” around the UK.
It suggested that as well as London – where the government has put considerable effort into promoting start-ups – other places such as Brighton, Liverpool, Belfast and Greater Manchester have shown strong growth in the digital industry.
Prime Minister David Cameron said: “The digital economy has become an integral part of our country and the rapid growth of many digital businesses has confirmed Britain’s position as a global hub of technology excellence.”
Chancellor George Osborne added: “What’s so exciting about today’s Tech Nation report is that it shows how we’re seeing the growth of tech businesses right across the country.
“As part of our plan for a truly national recovery we will do everything we can to support this growth and back the different tech clusters that are emerging around Britain.”
The imminent arrival of Tech North in Manchester comes five years after Mr Cameron announced Tech City, an organisation set up to support start-ups around the so-called “Silicon Roundabout” in East London.
Since then, the government has been eager to stress its success – however there are some in the technology business who dispute the impact Tech City has had, arguing that start-ups were succeeding independently of any government help.