Development and asset manager MEPC has appointed us to build 4 Angel Square, the first speculative office development to be delivered at NOMA - an £800-million, mixed-use development scheme in Manchester. MEPC is setting new benchmarks for sustainable commercial property development with 4 Angel Square and we will be working closely to reduce carbon emissions during the construction process. The contract has been signed and work will start on-site in the next few weeks, with completion due in early 2023. The 200,000 sq. ft. office scheme will be an operational net zero carbon building and is recognised as a LETI Pioneer project. LETI is a voluntary group working to ensure a net-zero carbon free UK in the future.On top of securing an EPC A rating for 4 Angel Square, MEPC is also aiming for an Outstanding BREEAM rating, with a minimum rating of Excellent guaranteed. Federated Hermes International (‘Federated Hermes’), which recently acquired MEPC and wholly owns NOMA, is managing the 20-acre regeneration project on behalf of an institutional investor. . Stephen Bradley, director – investment management at Federated Hermes, said: “We have huge confidence in the Manchester market, which is why are continuing to develop 4 Angel Square speculatively, and believe Manchester stands to benefit from changes in occupier demands post-coronavirus. A renewed trend of north-shoring is re-emerging as large corporate and public sector occupiers look to decentralise and spread their presence across key regional cities like Manchester. And while work patterns will undoubtedly change, there will always be demand for well located, high quality, highly sustainable workspace.” Over 2,000 people will be able to work at 4 Angel Square once the building is completed and over 500 people will work on the development over the project’s lifecycle. Specific employment opportunities will be created for local workers as well as the homeless, and apprenticeships and work placements available for young people. B+K North West Regional Commercial Director, Paul Sykes, said: “4 Angel Square will be a landmark office development, setting new benchmarks for sustainability and creating new high-quality workspace that will support Manchester’s recovery. We look forward to working closely with MEPC during the construction phase to reduce carbon emissions and creating employment opportunities for local young and homeless people.” Designed by Manchester-based architect SimpsonHaugh, 4 Angel Square will sit on the corner of Corporation Street and Miller Street and form a key part of the emerging business district within the NOMA neighbourhood. The 11-storey office building features a hotel-style entrance lobby and reception area and a c.2,500 sq. ft. external 10th floor roof terrace. On the ground floor, 7,000 sq. ft. of retail space will be provided and split over two units, together with a separate ground-floor office suite perfect for a start-up or small business. The ground-floor retail space will help activate the new public square that is planned for next to 4 Angel Square which will connect to the existing public realm surrounding One Angel Square. The public square will also connect 4 Angel Square to 2 & 3 Angel Square, which will collectively deliver 400,000 sq. ft. of Grade A new-build office space once built. Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “NOMA is playing a crucial role in revitalising a key part of Manchester city centre and today’s announcement is welcome news that will create jobs and drive investment into the city. Cities will need to move quickly to mitigate the economic impact of Covid-19 and it’s major projects such as this that help drive vital growth - and signals a city that remains attractive for development.”