The Co-operative Bank Doubles Down on Manchester with 15,500 sq ft Expansion at one balloon street

The Co-operative Bank has significantly increased its footprint in the heart of Manchester, taking an additional 15,500 sq ft of Grade A office space at its 1 Balloon Street base.

Located just a minute's walk from Victoria Station, the building has become a cornerstone of the NOMA and Northern Quarter fringe, offering tenants access to a shared business lounge, communal meeting rooms, and outdoor space.

1 Balloon Street, Manchester

The deal, which sees the bank occupy the entirety of the building’s fourth floor, brings its total occupancy at the site to 45,000 sq ft. The transaction was advised by CBRE on behalf of the landlord, Wittington Investments, with Cushman & Wakefield representing The Co-operative Bank.

A Near-Full House at One Balloon Street

The expansion leaves One Balloon Street nearly at capacity.

The building is currently home to serviced office and co-working provider Orega, which operates 26,000 sq ft of space. Following this latest letting, the only remaining vacancy is the 15,000 sq ft third floor.

Wittington Investments has confirmed it is pressing ahead with a comprehensive refurbishment of that final floor. The project will deliver a "plug-and-play" solution fully fitted and furnished workspace, set for completion in March 2026.

Connectivity and "Plug-and-Play" Demand

The move underscores a dominant trend in the Manchester office market: the "flight to quality" and the increasing demand for fitted space that reduces capital expenditure and lead times for occupiers.

Matt Shufflebottom, Director at CBRE

"This deal underlines the continued demand for high-quality, fully fitted workspace in Manchester city centre," said Matt Shufflebottom, Director at CBRE.

"One Balloon Street offers a compelling mix of cost-effective workspace, shared amenities, and transport connectivity. The Co-operative Bank’s expansion is a strong endorsement of the building and its long-term appeal."