Broadcaster Channel 4 is set to extend its presence in Manchester as it takes up space in the landmark Manchester development, No.1 St Michael’s boosting the city’s creative, digital and tech sector.

The channel will occupy the remaining half of floor eight at Relentless Developments’ No.1 St Michael’s, which includes a large terrace offering views across the city’s skyline.

Supporting the broadcaster’s existing presence in the city the new 100-desk space will open in summer 2025. This will more than double the size of Channel 4’s current footprint in Manchester whilst it forges ahead with plans to reduce its London desk-space.

The move is a part of Channel 4’s commitment to national and regional expansion supporting plans to reach 600 roles outside London as it approaches the fifth anniversary of opening its regional bases.

Gary Neville, director at Relentless Developments, said: “We’re really pleased to sign Channel 4 to to the last remaining office suite at No.1. The broadcaster has a strong reputation for bold and creative content and it justifiably joins the portfolio of highly-renowned brands here at St Michael’s.

“Concluding the office lettings has seen us break the city’s rental record no less than three times which is a huge achievement. We’re now focused on final negotiations for the remaining F&B unit which will see us reach fully let status.”

Alex Mahon, chief executive at Channel 4, said:Channel 4 has always led the way in representation and now we are going even further, strengthening our Nations and Regions commitment and offering our people the opportunity to relocate out of London and making all new roles available at any of our regional locations.  

“This is a really special moment for Channel 4 as we continue our significant momentum to grow our presence across the UK. Channel 4 has always led the way in representation and now we are going even further. Manchester has always been a really important base for Channel 4, and we’re excited to be working with Gary Neville and his team at Relentless to grow our presence in this great city.” 

Channel 4 has taken a 10-year lease for 12,293 sq ft at St Michael’s eighth floor, sharing half of the floor with Pinsent Mason. When the building completes later this year, Channel 4 will relocate from its current Manchester office at 82 King Street.