Russells Construction has been selected to deliver a £34 million refurbishment scheme at a historic warehouse building in Manchester.

The contractor will strip back and remodel the 109,000 sq ft Hanover House building in Corporation Street to create new office space.

Wates was originally appointed to deliver the NOMA scheme and completion was scheduled for 2016. However, a fire broke out at the building in October 2015, destroying part of the roof and halting refurbishment work.

Russells has now been chosen to take forward the project to create 91,000 sq ft of Grade A office space and 18,000 sq. ft. of retail/leisure use.


Features include incorporating numerous historic features, such as the very fine glazed tiles in the stairwells and the coffered plastered ceilings. The extensive terracotta façade will be cleaned and carefully repaired, with like-for-like sensitive repairs being carried out on all retained elements.

The scheme aims to achieve a BREEAM 'Very Good' rating due to a focus on low energy mechanical and electrical systems, upgraded thermal and acoustic insulation and close proximity to public transport.

Once complete in August 2018, NOMA aims to attract creative and technology firms to the city centre’s emerging innovation district.

Gareth Russell, director at Russells, said: "As well as restoring a beautiful Grade II-listed building back into use, the investment being put in by NOMA will help Hanover surpass former glories. We aim to create an attractive and functional space while also enhancing the fabric and character of the original building."

(LM/MH)