LSH seeks buyer for Manchester BBC site

Lambert Smith Hampton has been formally appointed to dispose of the BBC’s 5.4-acre central Manchester site, as tipped by EG in April.

New Broadcasting House has been the BBC’s Manchester headquarters since 1976, but will be vacated by the end of 2011 as part of the corporation’s move to Peel Holdings’ MediaCityUK at Salford Quays.

During the last two years, LSH has advised the BBC on the development options for the site, which is located on Oxford Road.

The building will either be redeveloped or refurbished as offices, retail/leisure or houses.

The BBC aims to conclude a sale in 2011.

Peter Skelton, strategic development director at LSH, said: “This is a significant step forward in the redevelopment of what has been earmarked as one of the most important large-scale, strategic development sites in the city centre.”

“The downward shift in the property market in recent years has had a negative impact on development projects, with very few sites – particularly of this magnitude – being released for sale.  While the redevelopment of BBC site is still some way off, it is vital for Manchester’s future prosperity that we get it right”.

daniel.cunningham@estatesgazette.com

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