Manchester marked a major milestone in its growth as a global science and technology hub with the opening of the first phase of its £1.7 billion innovation district on Friday. The project, called "Sister," is a collaboration between the University of Manchester, Bruntwood SciTech, Legal and General, and the Greater Manchester Pension Fund. Once completed, the district will encompass 2 million square feet of commercial space and 1,500 new homes, designed to attract businesses, startups, and investors to the city.
The innovation district is part of Manchester’s strategy to become a leader in science and technology, alongside other prominent UK university cities such as Oxford and Cambridge. These cities are creating ecosystems where universities and private sector investors work closely with startups, a model Britain’s Labour government is keen to expand to drive economic growth and modernize public services.
Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, called the project a "significant moment" for the city. The first tenant, climate tech investment firm Sustainable Ventures, is set to move into the Renold Building this November.
Funded in part by £160 million in public money through the government-backed Greater Manchester Investment Zone, the Sister project is expected to attract further businesses to the region over the next decade. The development group plans to announce its first major development zone soon.
This 15-year venture will further enhance Manchester's position as a center for scientific and technological advancements, providing new opportunities for innovation, employment, and urban development.
