Latest First Street phase to provide Excellent offices

Working on behalf of BAM Construction, Elland Steel Structures is erecting 1,700t of steelwork for the latest First Street development in Manchester.

Known as Plot 9 and aiming to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, the project is a nine-storey commercial structure designed by Jon Matthews Associates.

Located on the site of the former Gaythorn Gas Works, First Street has emerged over the last 10 years as one of Manchester’s most vibrant new neighbourhoods.

Located alongside Medlock Street, one of Manchester’s main routes into the city centre from the south, the development combines cultural facilities, a hotel, retail units and residential blocks as well as extensive public realm, making it one of the prime mixed-use locations in the city centre.

Plot 9 will be the first net zero carbon office building on the estate. Sustainability and wellbeing are top of the agenda as the structure’s office floorplates will be complemented by integrated winter gardens on all floors, a roof terrace and extensive external landscaping.

Described as one of Manchester’s finest office buildings, the Government Property Agency (GPA) has taken a 25-year lease on the entire building, which will accommodate around 2,500 staff. It is expected that £31M in economic benefits will be generated by the relocation from London to Manchester of over 700 civil service roles, which forms part of the Government’s Places for Growth initiative.

First Street Plot 9 is due to be complete by August 2024.