Manchester city councillors have signed off the strategic regeneration framework following a public consultation on the scheme, which reframes the 60-acre, office-focussed Airport City as an advanced manufacturing and R&D hub.

The Manufacturing Innovation Exchange, abbreviated to MIX Manchester, got its first green light in July, when its draft SRF was approved by Manchester City Council’s executive.

That draft has now been finalised, with changes incorporated to enhance cycle and walking connections, conduct traffic modelling, include Natural England’s Green Infrastructure Framework, and examine the area’s drainage systems.

MIX Manchester’s framework will guide future development on the site, which sits within 400 metres of Manchester Airport. Building upon that document, the joint venture behind MIX Manchester is hoping to start submitting planning applications for the scheme via planner CBRE next year.

That JV comprises Columbia Threadneedle Real Estate, Manchester Airports Group, Beijing Construction Engineering Group International, and Greater Manchester Pension Fund.

Their proposals for MIX Manchester have a gross development value of £1bn, the JV said.

The masterplan, designed by Sheppard Robson and Planit, allows for the delivery of 2m sq ft of innovation and manufacturing space, including laboratories and offices. There would also be a series of complementary amenities, such as hotels, leisure activities, and public spaces.

An increase in biodiversity of 10% is part of the SRF’s ambitions.

It is hoped by the JV that MIX Manchester will create 8,000 jobs in the region.

Gareth Jackson, group property director at Manchester Airports Group, said the SRF had received a “positive response” from the public during the consultation period.

“MIX Manchester’s airport location and capacity makes this arguably one of the best locations in the UK to support innovation-led businesses, with a strong presence in manufacturing and life sciences,” Jackson said.

Manchester City Council Leader Cllr Bev Craig was similarly full of praise for the endeavour.

“MIX MANCHESTER represents the next chapter in the story of Manchester Airport and another important engine of economic growth for the city,” she said.

“Its enviable location provides a platform for new and existing business to thrive and further builds on Manchester’s reputation as a centre of excellence for science and manufacturing,” Craig continued.

“The campus will create thousands of new job opportunities and will help cement our city as a global leader for innovation.”

JLL and Track Real Estates are the joint agents for MIX Manchester.