Flexible workspace operator Clockwise arrives in Manchester

Flexible workspace operator Clockwise has launched its newest building in the heart of Manchester, expanding its presence to three sites in the north of England.

As Clockwise’s ninth space, the opening marks another step in the business’ steep growth – it is set to significantly increase its portfolio this year, reaching over half a million sq ft of workspace covering the breadth of the UK from Glasgow to Exeter via London, and expanding into mainland Europe with the opening of Brussels. 

Opening in phases over the coming year, Clockwise Manchester is set over eight floors providing a functional, flexible space for businesses to collaborate and thrive. Spanning 30,000 sq ft in total, it includes dedicated office space, private desks and meeting rooms, alongside breakout areas, and club lounges created to support different styles of working. Members will also have access to podcast recording room and an onsite artisan café Two Hands. 

Situated in Linley House on Dickinson Street, just off Portland Street in the city centre, Clockwise Manchester benefits from great nearby amenities, local connections and access to the wider region.   

Originally built in 1963 as a former electrical station, powering the whole of Manchester city, the building has been sensitively renovated by architect MoreySmith to reflect its industrial architectural history. 

Hinting mid-century influence and boasting original features such as high ceilings, large windows and the iconic ‘City of Manchester Electric Light Station’ sign, the space has been reinvigorated to create the best working environment for members. 

Design has been carefully considered with elements incorporated specifically to increase productivity, foster community, and support the wellbeing of its members. Featuring public spaces including a striking engineered stairwell for Clockwise members to congregate, natural daylight is optimised to aid circadian rhythms, with the addition of planting to help purify air and enhance memory retention and compassion. 

The space has been designed to reflect the changing nature of work, with flexible leases and technology enabling seamless communication between those at home or in office spaces, including the Clockwise portal and in-house A/V. 

Alexandra Brunner, Chief Operating Officer at Clockwise, says: “Manchester is home to a thriving community of entrepreneurs, start-ups and growing businesses so it was a natural decision for us to have a presence there at such an exciting time – the city has been a central part of our growth strategy and we’re excited to open the doors to our new space. 

“The collective experience of working from home over the last year has highlighted the need for more flexible working practices post-pandemic, but businesses still need central spaces that allow for productivity, collaboration and employee wellbeing all in equal measure. 

“We design each Clockwise site with these characteristics in mind, while adopting a localised approach that reflects the personality of each city and best supports the area’s businesses.  At Clockwise Manchester, we are committed to providing the business community with a space where they can feel at home, as well as a place to complete their best work and achieve their full potential.” 

The safety of members in Clockwise Manchester and beyond remains a priority, with all buildings being Covid-19 secure, having reconfigured the space to promote social distancing, increased already high hyenine standards and treated all surfaces in public areas with specialist long-life chemical, Zonitise, that kills harmful bacteria on contact. 

Find out more about Clockwise HERE!