The digital strategy for Manchester sets the national standard for creating a city infused with technology and opportunity. The ambitious objective is to ‘be a world-leading Digital City by 2025’[1], spanning inclusion, sustainability, innovation and prosperity.
Part of this strategy has been a range of development projects throughout the city. Under the Digital Places strand of the 2021-2026 Manchester Digital strategy[2], the goal of excellent and accessible digital infrastructure everywhere, has meant that commercial potential can be realised quickly and cost-effectively.
But as Manchester moves through the second half of this five-year plan, it has no time to rest on its laurels, no matter how well earned. In the spirit of ‘making it happen’ by proactively seeking better outcomes, we have been exploring Manchester development projects that could be accelerated by considering – or reconsidering – the associated digital infrastructure.
Our starting point is Manchester Science Park (MSP), one of the UK’s most established life sciences and technology communities. Physically, the park offers office and laboratory space, set amidst one of Europe's largest clinical academic campuses.
The park enables specialist support, access to finance and funding, skills and talent, and a mentor network. More than 150 businesses are based at MSP, covering life sciences, digital transformation, advanced materials, cybersecurity, and computer engineering.
Reliable, high-performance digital infrastructure, including high-speed internet, secure data networks, and robust cloud connectivity, is essential for these companies, spanning their output and operations.
The second phase of the Manchester Airport Transformation Project (MAN-TP) is no less ambitious. Building on a £1.3bn investment, first announced in 2015, the phase aims to expand the airport's capacity and improve passenger experience by upgrading terminal 2, with the plan to be fully operational by 2025.
IT infrastructure is front and centre of this travel experience. Spanning self-service kiosks, automated baggage handling systems, and real-time flight information displays, to the digital backbone that will support data analytics to optimise airport operations and security.
Lastly, the 4 million sq. ft, NOMA (Northern Manchester) mixed-use redevelopment project is transforming a former industrial district. The site has already become the national headquarters of the Co-operative Group.
Robust digital infrastructure will benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike. This could include high-speed internet access for homes and commercial premises, a network of public Wi-Fi hotspots, and smart city features like digital signage and environmental sensors. Additionally, digital infrastructure could attract innovative technology companies and startups to the area.
Pulsant’s contribution to this discussion focuses on the development of our regional, innovation and development environments. These are built around our colocation facilities, offering a mix of local experience and sector-specific expertise to accelerate business growth using digital infrastructure.
We are proud to support Manchester's refreshed economic strategy and investment, contributing to the city's continued success. Our recent expansion at our Trafford Park facility marks a significant step forward, serving as the foundation for further targeted involvement. Stay tuned for more updates!
[1]See Introduction: A new digital vision for Manchester | Manchester Digital Strategy 2021 – 2026 | Manchester City Council
[2]See Theme 2: Digital Places | Manchester Digital Strategy 2021 – 2026 | Manchester City Council