Plans in to retrofit Renold Building in Manchester

Manchester’s Renold Building is set to become an innovation hub, developers have revealed.  ID Manchester, a joint venture between Bruntwood SciTech and the University of Manchester, has submitted proposals to turn the existing 31,646 sq ft educational facility into commercial space. Renold Building, constructed in 1962, is claimed to be among the first of its kind in the UK to be entirely comprised of lecture theatres and seminar rooms. [caption id="attachment_1224333" align="aligncenter" width="847"] Built in 1962, Renold Building will retain its original facade and some internal features[/caption] The redevelopment proposals will retain the internal mural on the lower ground floor and the stair tower as part of the application. They will also be sympathetic to the building’s facades. The refurbished six-storey building will provide a range of co-working, office and meeting facilities to support collaboration between researchers, entrepreneurs, businesses and partner organisations. New events and exhibition spaces, including lecture theatres and a community café, will be available to local businesses, community groups and arts organisations. Pending application approval, the building is set to open in late 2024. The scheme marks the initial phase of the jv’s wider plan to transform the University of Manchester’s former north campus into a £1.7bn innovation district. Bradley Topps, chief commercial officer for Bruntwood SciTech and project director for ID Manchester, said: “We recognise the importance of the Renold Building to many in the local community and beyond, and we are committed to reactivating the building in a way that celebrates the rich heritage and architecture of the building.” John Holden, associate vice-president of the University of Manchester and executive committee member for ID Manchester, said: “We’re building our innovation ecosystem from the ground up and the Renold Building will be a place that not only accelerates the growth of our city’s most promising entrepreneurs, SMEs and university spin-outs, but also provides the spaces and opportunities to allow our local communities to participate, experience and benefit from innovation too.” Deloitte is advising the jv on planning matters. Images © Bruntwood