The Deloitte Crane Survey monitors developments and construction activities in major cities, providing comprehensive reporting. It analyzes construction projects in key urban areas such as Manchester and Salford, focusing on residential, office, hotel, retail, leisure, student accommodation, education, and healthcare sectors. This report tracks projects that are transforming the city both economically and physically, offering valuable insights for investors.

As one of the most trusted sources for assessing the scale, direction, and impacts of construction activities in cities, the Crane Survey plays a critical role in strategic decision-making, especially for those following investment opportunities in dynamic cities like Manchester.

The data in this report were recorded between January 3, 2023, and January 3, 2024.

Growth of Manchester and Salford

Over the past decade, Manchester and Salford have entered a transformative period, with strategic urban renewal projects and the development of underutilized areas outside the city center. The city has become a popular destination for living and working, while revitalized neighborhoods continue to create new opportunities. This growth has made Manchester an attractive choice not only for local but also for international investors.

Construction Activities and Plans

Despite macroeconomic challenges, Deloitte’s Manchester Crane Survey reveals robust performance in the construction sector. For example, Glenigan's October 2023 Construction Index shows that while residential construction decreased by 23% across the UK, activity levels in Manchester and Salford have remained steady.

This stability can be attributed to proactive planning processes and the unique appeal of the city region. The development sector continues to thrive, with creativity and resilience evident across both public and private sectors. Manchester’s skilled construction workforce stands as one of the strongest indicators of this resilience.

Residential Sector

Manchester's residential completions continued in 2023, with 2,402 new homes completed. Although below peak levels in 2021, delivery figures are largely in line with 2022. The Build-to-Rent model is an increasingly popular trend in Manchester due to high demand and population growth, particularly within the city center.

In 2023, Salford Central accounted for a substantial share of residential completions, with 1,114 units delivered across four schemes. A total of 3,523 new residential projects across Manchester are rapidly reshaping the city skyline. Additionally, the completion of seven residential towers on Great Jackson Street in 2023 further accelerates the area’s urban transformation.

Click to take a closer look at real estate projects in Manchester.

Driving Force of Urban Development

The UK’s vision of becoming a global innovation hub by 2035 has a major influence on Manchester. The Christabel Pankhurst Institute at the University of Manchester is one example of initiatives promoting needs-driven health technology research and innovations. Additionally, redevelopments in key locations like Oxford Road are creating opportunities for both education and business sectors.

Projects such as the UK Biobank, which will begin construction in 2024, further enhance Manchester's reputation as a center for science and innovation. These developments keep the city attractive to investors on both a national and international scale.

Record Demand for Student Accommodation and Future Opportunities

Manchester is facing record demand for student accommodation. The year 2023 saw a peak in new launches within the Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector. Universities and the private sector are responding swiftly to this demand driven by a high number of local and international students. By 2030, an additional 11,320 bed spaces will be needed.

At Rotas Investment, we offer opportunities in student accommodation projects that meet this high demand. Contact us for more details.

Manchester has become one of the cities with the highest student accommodation rental levels in the UK. This demand is primarily driven by students seeking accommodation in the city center. With over 10,000 international students at the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, the city is on a path to becoming a global hub for education and investment.

Cultural Investments

Manchester attracts significant investment not only in construction and real estate but also in culture and the arts. Completed in 2023, the Factory International Aviva Studios further strengthened Manchester’s position as a cultural destination. Lonely Planet ranked Manchester among the top cities to visit worldwide in 2023.

A City with Promising Investment Opportunities: Manchester!

Manchester shows steady growth in both the residential and student accommodation sectors. With diverse construction projects, innovation-driven developments, and cultural investments, the city is highly attractive to investors. As Manchester and Salford continue to offer substantial investment opportunities, activities in the region remain vibrant. By 2030, the city will continue to present potential across a broad spectrum, from real estate to education.

If you wish to benefit from this rapid growth and invest in opportunities in Manchester, Rotas Investment offers you the most comprehensive services. Click here to learn more about our services.

A Future Backed by Data

The general stability of activities in Manchester, supported by data such as 2,402 completed homes in 2023, confirms the region's strength for investors. Asset classes like Build-to-Rent and student accommodations will remain focal points for investors in the coming years.

For more information about real estate investments in Manchester and to invest in your future, contact us today!