What is Sister? Manchester’s £1.7BN Innovation Hub

Manchester is no stranger to transformation. With a proud industrial heritage and a reputation as one of the UK’s most forward-thinking cities, it continues to attract global attention—and capital. Now, a landmark £1.7 billion project known as Sister (formerly ID Manchester) is set to redefine the city centre once again, creating one of Europe’s leading innovation districts.

For property investors, Sister represents more than just a regeneration project. With thousands of jobs, improved infrastructure, and over 4 million sq ft of mixed-use space in the pipeline, this new district offers a unique opportunity to capitalise on Manchester’s dynamic growth trajectory.

Key Takeaways

• £1.7 Billion Development: One of the UK’s most ambitious innovation-led projects, spanning 4 million sq ft of space.
• 10,000+ Jobs: Supporting employment growth and driving housing demand across multiple sectors.
• £1.5 Billion+ Annual Economic Impact: Projected Gross Value Added (GVA) to Manchester’s economy.
• Oxford Road Corridor Location: Prime position in a thriving academic and innovation zone.
• 1,500 New Homes: Additional residential supply in an area of high rental demand.
• Heritage & Design: Historic features such as the Grade II listed Hollaway Wall integrated into modern architecture.

A New District with Big Ambitions

The Sister development is a £1.7 billion strategic investment designed to reinforce Manchester’s role as a UK and global innovation hub. Set across 29 acres, Sister will deliver over 4 million sq ft of mixed-use space, including more than 2 million sq ft dedicated to commercial, innovation, retail, and leisure facilities, as well as 1,500 new homes.

This is a district built for the knowledge economy, enabling collaboration between major tech firms, science hubs, academic institutions, and start-ups. As Manchester’s demand for flexible workspace and modern residential property continues to rise, Sister stands out as a future-ready location with strong investment fundamentals.

Building a Thriving Urban Economy

The economic impact of the Sister development is expected to be transformative. Forecasts suggest that the project will support over 10,000 full-time equivalent jobs, with the next phase alone creating 4,000 new roles. These will span advanced manufacturing, life sciences, digital industries, hospitality, and more—generating widespread demand for both homes and commercial spaces.

Additionally, the site is projected to contribute over £1.5 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to Manchester’s economy annually, reinforcing the city’s trajectory as one of the UK’s fastest-growing urban centres. For investors, this means higher tenant demand, strong rental yields, and long-term capital appreciation potential.

Why The Oxford Road Corridor Location Matters

Sister is anchored within the Oxford Road Corridor, which already plays a vital role in Manchester’s knowledge economy. This area is home to the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, and global science and technology firms housed at Bruntwood SciTech. It currently contributes around £3 billion a year to the local economy.

With over 70,000 students and academic staff in the vicinity, and Manchester Piccadilly Station just a short walk away, the area is primed for further growth. Enhanced cycle paths, new pedestrianised routes, and investment in public realm improvements will only increase its appeal to both businesses and professionals looking to live and work in the heart of the city.

Blending the Old with the New

What makes the Sister project particularly appealing is its thoughtful integration of heritage architecture into a forward-thinking design. The development will preserve and repurpose key historical features such as the Grade II listed Hollaway Wall and original railway viaduct arches, which will house community spaces, retail outlets, and leisure venues.

This fusion of old and new enriches the district’s character and creates a unique sense of place. For investors, properties in areas with distinctive identity and cultural value consistently command a premium, attract stable tenants, and benefit from long-term resilience against market volatility.

Rothmore Property: Your Trusted Partner in Manchester Investment

At Rothmore Property, we specialise in identifying and securing high-performing new build opportunities across the UK—and Manchester is a core focus for us. With over 60 developments nationwide, including off-plan and completed properties in the city’s most exciting growth zones, we help both first-time buyers and seasoned investors find the right fit.

The Sister innovation district represents one of the most promising investment opportunities in the North. Whether you’re aiming for robust rental yields or long-term capital growth, our expert team will guide you through the process—from sourcing and negotiation to final acquisition. With local insight and a track record of results, Rothmore is your reliable partner in a fast-moving market.

Looking Ahead to What’s Next

Manchester’s £1.7 billion Sister development is more than a city-centre project—it’s a transformational innovation district that will create jobs, foster global collaboration, and offer exceptional value for property investors. As demand for premium, well-connected residential and commercial property rises, this area is set to outperform.

Contact us today to explore how you can be part of this exciting chapter in Manchester’s growth story. Whether you're an experienced investor or starting your journey, we’re here to help you make strategic, confident decisions in the UK’s most dynamic cities.