Manchester’s regeneration projects – Where to invest in the city?

Manchester is one of the fastest-growing cities in the UK. Its economy is booming, and productivity is going up every year. The city’s skyscraper district is the most visible sign of Manchester’s growth, but it’s not the only one.

For investors wondering where Manchester’s best buy-to-let areas are, there is a whole range of regeneration masterplans which should be of interest. These are where you can find the best new properties and the most attractive neighbourhoods.

Read on to learn about two of the most exciting regeneration schemes, then learn about one of the best places to buy Manchester investment property in 2025 and 2026.

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Aviva Studios – Factory International

Factory International – otherwise known as Aviva Studios – is arguably the most important cultural development completed in the UK over the last decade. It’s located on the banks of the River Irwell and is transforming Manchester’s art, theatre and creative scene.

The numbers involved speak for themselves:

• 143,000 sqft of space for the arts
• £1.1bn addition to the regional economy
• 1,500 jobs supported directly and indirectly
• 15 million visitors per year

The economic case is clear. Combine that with the cultural benefits of unique events and the benefit for young people in the region, and you have a game-changing development in Manchester.

Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Aviva Studios is a nationally and internationally important cultural attraction in the heart of Manchester. This multi-year, multi-million pound partnership reflects the magnitude of the venue not just for the city but for the North of England and the UK as a whole.”

From the point of view of property investors, this is priceless. More jobs, exciting cultural improvements and economic growth are exactly what is needed to bring more people to Manchester and persuade them to make their home here.

Property located close to Aviva Studios will be extremely desirable to young professionals and families who want to experience the best of what life in Manchester has to offer.

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Regent Park regeneration area

Located just over the River Irwell is the brand new Regent Park regeneration area. This development is taking an underused area and turning it into one of the most promising, high-quality neighbourhoods in the UK.

It’s another example of what the region does so well and is designed to bring the following benefits:

• 3.5-acre new park in the city centre
• 8,500 sqm of new commercial space to create a centre for the neighbourhood
• 1,000 sqm community hub
• A public square for markets, food vendors, exhibitions and live events
• EV charging points, sustainable urban drainage, green roofs and smart green technology
• New walking, cycling and wheeling routes
• 3,300 new energy-efficient homes

The regeneration masterplan is in its second consultation, and planning permission is expected in the future. When it arrives, this will be another exceptional new neighbourhood in the Manchester region.

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Where to invest in Manchester

Investors can potentially earn higher returns if they invest near a regeneration masterplan. Investing close to the waterfront also seems to have a positive effect on the potential rents that can be charged at a property. That’s at a time when the North West of England is already the home of consistently high rents.

People want to live close to the water, the newest infrastructure and the most welcoming neighbourhoods. That makes Viridian a priority investment opportunity for anyone who wants to buy Manchester investment property in 2026.

Viridian is a brand new scheme located within a short walk of Aviva Studios, Regent Park and the River Irwell waterfront. It’s also convenient for anyone who works in Salford Quays, home of the BBC and another waterfront area of Manchester.

Comprising 11 storeys of luxury living spaces in 85 spacious one & two-bedroom apartments, and one three-bedroom penthouse apartment overlooking the city centre, Viridian’s unique design is prominent in Manchester’s new skyline. It also features a range of premium amenities and is designed to be a welcoming community for residents.

This newly launched development is an outstanding opportunity for investors to buy into one of the best new developments in the region. It has all the advantages investors want and is available now. For more information about Viridian, contact the team today!