Circle Square

Gazing up at these modern structures, can you believe Circle Square was once home to the BBC? Circle Square, a vibrant hub of activity, stands where the BBC Oxford Road site once broadcast its stories. The BBC occupied this space until 2012, when they moved to Media City in Salford. The old building was demolished, leaving the area as a car park before Circle Square began to rise. This 2.4 million square foot development is a joint venture between Vita Group and Bruntwood SciTech. It’s a testament to Manchester’s innovative spirit, costing an estimated £850 million. Circle Square isn’t just steel and glass. It’s a mixed-use space designed to foster a thriving community. It boasts commercial buildings, residential apartments, retail spaces, and leisure areas, all surrounding a green oasis called Symphony Park. Imagine over 1,100 student apartments and private rented flats within this bustling square. Picture tech incubators buzzing with innovation, alongside offices for companies like Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Hilti, Mills & Reeve, and even Autocab, part of Uber. As you stroll through Circle Square, take a moment to appreciate Symphony Park. Designed by Planit, this green lung features 187 semi-mature trees and over 1,000 plants. It’s a welcome contrast to the surrounding urban landscape. Circle Square also nurtures small businesses. Hatch, a pop-up retail area, opened in 2018. It offers short-term, flexible leases to independent traders and retailers, fostering a unique shopping experience. Circle Square embodies Manchester’s forward-thinking approach to urban development. It’s a place where business, living, and leisure intertwine seamlessly, creating a dynamic and exciting destination.