Plans have been confirmed for the development of a new 76-storey skyscraper in Manchester, set to become the tallest building in the UK outside of London. The £360 million city-centre development will feature a five-star Nobu hotel, complete with a high-end restaurant, 160 rooms, and 452 luxury residences. The project, designed by SimpsonHaugh Architects, is expected to be completed by 2031 and will stand at an impressive height of 246 metres, surpassing the nearby Deansgate Square and Manchester Central buildings. The development is currently awaiting planning permission, with a decision anticipated this spring.
Nobu, the renowned restaurant and hotel brand co-owned by American actor Robert De Niro, operates 36 hotels globally. The Manchester site, known as Viadux 2, will mark the brand’s 37th property and its first foray into the UK’s luxury real estate market. The collaboration between Nobu Lifestyle and British property developer Salboy aims to deliver a landmark project that combines hospitality, residential living, and world-class amenities. The tower will include 160 hotel rooms, event spaces, a Nobu restaurant and bar, and the brand’s inaugural UK residences, each featuring refined Japanese-inspired details and high-end facilities such as an exclusive swimming pool, spa, and gym.
Trevor Horwell, CEO of Nobu Hospitality, expressed pride in bringing the brand to Manchester, citing the city’s vibrant culture and growing global status. He emphasised the importance of strong partnerships in achieving success, praising Salboy, Fred Done, and Simon Ismail for their reputation and visionary approach. Horwell highlighted Manchester’s dynamic energy as an ideal location for Nobu’s expansion, underscoring the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.
Simon Ismail, co-founder of Salboy, described the £360 million Nobu Manchester project as a transformative addition to the city’s landscape, elevating its offerings in service, cuisine, and overall experience. He noted the global influence of Nobu’s culinary innovations, which have redefined fine dining worldwide. Ismail expressed enthusiasm for introducing the brand’s signature hospitality to the UK, with the Manchester development set to showcase Nobu’s unique blend of luxury and innovation.
Fred Done, co-founder of Salboy and Betfred, shared his excitement about welcoming Nobu to Manchester, drawing on his extensive travel experiences and appreciation for the brand’s consistent excellence in cuisine and hospitality. Done emphasised that the investment in Nobu Manchester transcends financial returns, representing a commitment to bringing world-class standards to the city and celebrating its cultural and economic significance.
The Nobu brand, founded by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and film producer Meir Teper, has become synonymous with luxury dining and hospitality. Its global presence spans major cities, including New York, Singapore, and Dubai, with each property reflecting the brand’s signature blend of Japanese minimalism and modern elegance. The Manchester development is expected to further solidify Nobu’s reputation as a leader in the luxury hospitality and real estate sectors, while contributing to the city’s ongoing transformation into a global destination for business, culture, and tourism.
The project’s completion in 2031 will not only redefine Manchester’s skyline but also set a new benchmark for luxury living and hospitality in the UK. With its combination of high-end residences, a five-star hotel, and world-class dining, Viadux 2 is poised to become a symbol of Manchester’s ambition and its status as a leading international city.
