Hive to create a buzz

Manchester City Council has agreed to invest in a Northern Quarter regeneration scheme designed to attract creative industries.

The City Council has entered into a joint venture agreement with Manchester developer Argent to kick start the first phase of The Hive scheme at Stevenson Square.

The 76,000 sq ft development, designed by HKR, will provide a unique, flexible workspace for the creative industry and act as a magnet for inward investment.

An economic impact study undertaken by Arup estimates that by 2013 The Hive scheme will deliver 440 full-time equivalent jobs. The additional annual income generated for the city's economy by the development is estimated to be £9.3 million.

The City Council has also approved the idea of a competition to produce a top quality remodelling of Stevenson Square, which borders The Hive, making it a top quality public open space.

A detailed design brief will now be drawn up for Stevenson Square. Its transformation will include lighting and tree-planting schemes and the use of natural materials will be specified. The City Council will be looking for the owners of neighbouring properties to contribute towards the cost of the scheme.

Both schemes will contribute to the regeneration of the Northern Quarter. The Council's City Strategic Plan 2008-2012 identifies the crucial role the area can play as a destination for new activities, especially in meeting the needs of the media-related sector.

City Council Leader Sir Richard Leese said: "The Northern Quarter has a distinctive identity and has become a strong brand in its own right. We are determined to preserve that character while making the most of the area's creative, independent spirit. The Northern Quarter has a crucial role to play as a platform for growth in the media sector and these two initiatives will help generate momentum."

David Partridge, joint chief executive at Argent, said: "We are now in a position to progress our plans for The Hive, which is great news for the city. In entering into another joint venture with us, Manchester City Council has illustrated its unique ability to back vital regeneration. Argent is extremely enthusiastic about talking The Hive forward, bucking the trend in today's difficult business climate. The Council's support has been crucial, however, as without this joint business venture, the plans would not be progressing at this pace."

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