GPA’s Manchester Digital Campus to Go Ahead

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24 February 2025

A new government office building will be constructed on a former retail park site in Manchester, accommodating 7,000 new and existing civil service roles.

The Government Property Agency (GPA) acquired the site in 2024, and planning permission has been granted for a modern campus and public park.

Manchester Digital Campus will be a government hub promoting civil service roles outside of London, following the opening of Fletton Quays in Peterborough which houses over 1,000 staff from several departments and government bodies, including the Home Office and DEFRA.

A central lawn, plaza, tiered gardens, play areas, paths and tranquil areas will be accessible to all. There will also be new walking and cycling routes to link Ancoats, the Northern Quarter and the Etihad Campus.

Leader of the Council, Bev Craig said: “Gaining planning approval for both the GPA’s digital campus and the latest city centre park is the launchpad for the transformation of this site. Our ambition has long been to bring the former retail park back into active use and working in partnership with the GPA we are delivering a quality, low-carbon development that will bring 7,000 civil service jobs to Manchester in the coming years.

“The new digital campus plays to Manchester’s strengths. We have fostered one of the fastest-growing tech and digital communities in the UK, with a growing international reputation. The transformation of this brownfield site supports our ongoing growth in the sector, which translates into quality employment and development opportunities for our residents.

“We stand ready to work with this government to bring forward other ambitious investments in Manchester that can continue our path of sustainable economic growth, supporting our residents to thrive.

“At the same time, the new park is a welcome addition to our city centre green spaces and a reimagining of the former retail site that has for many years acted only as a barrier to the community behind – and an eyesore in one of the most exciting parts of our city.”

Mark Bourgeois, CEO at the GPA, added: “We are delighted with the decision and are grateful for the support of the many stakeholders in Manchester. The GPA team is proud to be working on this exciting project in support of the Government's growth mission.”

Picture: a CGI of the proposed new office with prominent greenery at the front. Image Credit: GPA

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 24 February 2025

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