Bupa signs up for switch to new building

Bupa today revealed a three-year plan to move its Salford Quays operation to a new base.

The health and social care company has signed a 15-year agreement with The Peel Land & Property Group to lease The Regent at MediaCityUK in Salford Quays. At 145,000 square feet, this is one of the biggest commercial property lettings in Manchester in the last five years.

Construction of the new space should start in 2016 subject to planning approval and, when completed, will see approximately 2,000 Bupa people relocate from two neighbouring buildings.

Bupa UK managing director Richard Bowden said:

“We’re very excited about this move to The Regent and pleased that we’ve been able to stay in Salford Quays. We’re determined to be the best-loved health and care company in the UK. This move will help us to develop more efficient ways of working so we can provide an even better service for our customers. It will also help towards our targets to be more sustainable through energy efficient design that also supports smart working practices.”

Bupa’s team will now work with its employees and Peel on developing the design and layout of the new space, with a target of moving into The Regent in 2018. The deal reflects the growing appeal that MediaCityUK now has to both large and small businesses, as well as residents and students.

Stephen Wild, managing director, MediaCityUK, said:

“We’re delighted to have secured this agreement with Bupa, which cements Peel’s long-standing relationship with the UK’s biggest name in private health care. The company’s investment in a new building supports our ambitious strategy for the wider MediaCityUK community and will provide a great working environment for Bupa’s staff. With more amenities and leisure activities yet to come, MediaCityUK has rapidly become a destination of choice for businesses of all sizes.”

Part of Bupa’s drive for investing in The Regent is to support a building which is more environmentally sustainable through design, fit-out, location and approach to travel.

Bupa was advised during the process by Cushman & Wakefield.