The university had previously selected a shortlist of six for the partnership to build the £1.5bn district on a former University of Manchester campus that is no longer in use.
Property Week understands the shortlist consisted of BCEGI and Tuspark, Bruntwood SciTech and Stanhope; Peel and Urban Splash; Henry Boot Developments; Muse Developments and Singaporean investor Mapletree.
The four remaining bidders have been notified that the university is pausing the procurement process and timetable for the next stage – detailed dialogue – for eight weeks, after which the situation will be reviewed.
“Clearly, it makes sense to pause the procurement process as we all adapt to the unprecedented circumstances caused by the coronavirus outbreak,” said Dame Nancy Rothwell, president and vice chancellor of the University of Manchester. “We remain committed to this project and I still truly believe we can make ID Manchester the innovation capital of Europe, providing the perfect conditions for organisations of all sizes and from different sectors, to share knowledge and work together turning incredible ideas into reality.”
Diana Hampson, director of estates and facilities at the university, added: “This is more than a property transaction. ID Manchester will create a new, world-class innovation district situated in the heart of Manchester and alongside the University.
“Although we are pausing the procurement process in response to current circumstances, we look forward to resuming detailed dialogue with the selected bidders (perhaps using some alternatives to face-to-face meetings) in order to advance this exciting project.”
Source: Office - propertyweek.com
