The UK’s Government Property Agency (GPA) has selected Wates as the contractor for the Category B fit-out of the new government office at Manchester’s First Street in England.
The construction of the nine-storey building is progressing into its final stage, with the company responsible for the hub’s fit-out to ensure it is functional for office use.
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
This selection follows the recent completion of the Category A fit-out and the beginning of the lease.
The fit-out phase commenced following the handover of the property to GPA this February, after BAM Construct UK completed works on the development.
The Manchester First Street Hub, a significant part of GPA’s Government Hubs Programme, is set to house approximately 2,600 civil servants from various departments.
The £105m ($135m) project, backed by the Pension Insurance Corporation, is part of a broader initiative to foster growth and modernise government workspaces across the UK.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataLocated within a short distance of the Oxford Road and Deansgate rail stations, the First Street Hub is designed to meet inclusive and accessible standards.
The 12,000m² building aims to support diverse working styles, promoting collaboration and community among civil servants.
GPA capital projects interim director Georgina Dunn said: “Appointing the Cat B contractor was the final major hurdle to overcome before the home straight of delivering this exceptional building. The hub will provide a state-of-the-art office space for thousands of civil servants and will be one of the largest cross-departmental hubs outside London.
“It also has enviable sustainability credentials with the building achieving a NABERS [National Australian Built Environment Rating System] 5.5* rating – ranking it among the most sustainable buildings in the UK.”
Wates Smartspace managing director Scott Camp said: “We are delighted to continue our successful partnership with the Government Property Agency following our work at Darlington Economic Campus and 2 Ruskin Square in Croydon.
“Securing the contract for the Cat B fit-out at Manchester First Street is a testament to our expertise in delivering high-quality, modern office environments. This project will provide thousands of civil servants with a state-of-the-art workspace, enabling them to foster collaboration and efficiency.”
