The North West NOMA MANCHESTER: with Ian Cody, Federated Hermes


NOMA has become one of Manchester’s most talked-about neighbourhoods, how would you describe its journey?


Over the past decade, NOMA has evolved from a post-industrial site into one of the UK’s most dynamic mixed-use neighbourhoods. What stands today is a carefully curated, design-led destination where heritage build- ings sit alongside cutting-edge sustainable developments. It’s a place where people can live, work, and socialise, all within a walkable, community-focused environment.


What has driven this transformation?


The transformation of NOMA has been driven by a combination of long- term investment, heritage-led regeneration, and a strong focus on place- making. The project has taken a patient, strategic approach to redevel- opment, ensuring each phase adds lasting value. A key driver has been the careful restoration and repurposing of Grade II listed buildings like Hanover, Dantzic, and New Century, all helping to anchor NOMA’s iden- tity to its roots while attracting businesses and visitors. Alongside this, sustainable new developments like 4 Angel Square, a Net-Zero Carbon in Operation office building, have positioned NOMA at the forefront of environmentally responsible design. This mix of old and new creates an authentic, forward-looking neighbourhood that reflects Manchester’s unique character.


How important is community to NOMA’s success?


Community is central. NOMA isn’t just a commercial neighbourhood, it’s a place designed for people. Sadler’s Yard, Manchester’s first new public square in over a century, named by a public vote, sits at its heart. The Yard hosts a year-round programme of free events, from a farmers’ market and record fair to seasonal celebrations. Across the neighbourhood, the


NOMA has firmly established itself as a standout business destination in Manchester City Centre. It has attracted major occupiers including Amazon, BNY, Material Source, and Adanola. A key milestone came in 2024 with the 200,000 sq ft letting of 4 Angel Square to BNY the largest regional office deal of its kind in six years, demonstrating strong confi- dence in both Manchester and NOMA.


Residential development has also played a vital role. Angel Gardens, delivered with Moda Living, provides 466 build-to-rent homes and indus- try-leading amenities, helping to create a true neighbourhood rather than a nine-to-five business district.


What’s next for NOMA?


With planning in place for further phases, including 2 and 3 Angel Square office buildings, the next decade will only build on this momentum. The focus remains on sustainable growth, high-quality design, and deepening community engagement. NOMA demonstrates how thoughtful placemak- ing can drive long-term resilience, commercial success, and a genuine sense of belonging, setting a new benchmark for urban regeneration across the UK.


RESIDENTIAL REGENERATION POLICY AND ITS IMPACT ON ESTABLISHED COMMERCIAL AREAS IN STOCKPORT NORMAN BENTON MRICS IMPEY & COMPANY


‘Residential Regeneration Policy and Its Impact on Established Commercial Areas in Stockport reports Norman Benton MRICS Impey & Company Recent planning policy initiatives from Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council have placed a strong emphasis on residential-led regeneration in and around the town centre. This reflects a wider national planning direction encouraging higher-density housing close to transport hubs, retail centres and existing infrastructure. While the aim is to revitalise urban areas and increase housing supply, the practical effect of identi- fying broad zones for residential development has created a degree of uncertainty for established commercial and industrial districts that fall within or adjacent to these areas.


Uncertainty for Commercial Landlords


For landlords of commercial and industrial property, the designation of surrounding areas for residential development can produce mixed signals in the market. On the one hand, the possibility of future redevelopment may imply long-term land value uplift, particularly where residential devel- opment values significantly exceed commercial investment values. On the other hand, the same designation can reduce short-term investment certainty. Landlords considering refurbishments or longer lease terms may hesitate if the surrounding area is expected to evolve into a residential neighbourhood. In practical terms, this can lead to changes in leasing strategies, such as:


COMMERCIAL PROPERTY MONTHLY 2026


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shorter lease terms redevelopment break clauses more flexible occupation arrangements.


While these strategies protect future development potential, they can also create instability within established business locations.


Concerns for Business Tenants


Commercial and industrial occupiers operating within these districts can also be affected. Many businesses rely on predictability of occupation, particularly where operations involve deliveries, yard space, vehicle movements or machinery. Where residential development begins to appear nearby, tenants may worry about potential conflicts between residential amenity and commercial activity.


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Issues that sometimes arise include: noise sensitivity


restrictions on operating hours increased planning scrutiny of industrial uses.


Even where no immediate planning changes occur, the perception that an area is transitioning toward residential use can make tenants cautious about investing further in their premises.


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4.5 acres of green space is maintained by PLANT CIC, a not-for-profit gardening collective that has increased biodiversity by 54% in the past three years while fostering social connection through hands-on initiatives.


In 2024, this commitment to people and place grew even stronger with the launch of Altogether Otherwise, Manchester’s first ever hobby-house, a space created from a disused printing warehouse and reshaped around community needs and the desire to try new hobbies just for fun. Today, it hosts hundreds of free workshops, supporting creativity, wellbeing, and inclusion. Through partnerships with local organisations the space brings together diverse groups from students and creatives to individuals in Manchester experiencing food poverty.


What about NOMA’s commercial impact?


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