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Office building meant to “reinvigorate” Manchester City Centre is empty two years after completion… but will soon be filled

A Manchester city centre office complex meant to “reinvigorate” the heart of Manchester remains empty – more than two years after its completion.

The Lincoln first opened its doors in 2021 as part of a £4 million regeneration of Lincoln Square.

5plus architects advertised the building as “helping to reinvigorate an underutilised square in the heart of Manchester”.

Located on a walkway between Albert Square and Deansgate, The Lincoln offers 100,000 square feet of retail and office space across six floors – including a wellness room and a roof terrace.

Although its units remain empty, Mancunian Matters understands that much of the building has now been let or is under offer despite the slow start.

It is thought that a change to the building’s energy performance rating has prompted new interest in the property.

An empty retail unit at the Lincoln

The Lincoln was originally given a B-grade on its energy performance certificate (EPC) whilst nearby offices, such as the Landmark on St Peter’s Square, hold A-ratings.

A search of government records revealed that The Lincoln’s certificate was upgraded from a B to an A in 2023.

This energy performance certificate (EPC) will be valid until 2033.

The building based in Manchester’s Business District only secured its first tenant this year – Cubo, a flexible office operator.

Property newsgroup Place North West suggested that potential buyers could have been deterred by the shift towards hybrid working as well as the popularity of Lincoln Square with skateboarders.

Lincoln Square, with Lincoln’s statue, in Manchester’s Business District

Three commercial estate agents who are advertising space at The Lincoln were approached for comment. Knight Frank declined to comment. Savills and Cushman & Wakefield did not reply.

But reportedly the building will be fully let, occupied, and “reinvigorating” Lincoln Square months from now.

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