Is Manchester the ‘New London’?

Student Population

One of the greatest reasons for Manchester’s growth in the property investment world is its student population. Home to 40,000 students from all over the world, the University of Manchester is one of the biggest and most prestigious in the UK. For property investors, this is a huge reason to invest. As explored in our previous article, a growing population is crucial for a city to achieve strong capital growth.

Many students will tend to stay in the city once they’ve graduated. Subsequently, students will bring desirable skills into the growing job market. This will have a positive effect on the economy. Because Manchester is cosmopolitan and vibrant, it has become the ideal backdrop for young professionals and students.

Media Industry

Manchester is also home to a booming media industry. Many of the UK’s leading public companies have moved their operations to Greater Manchester. Over 250 creative enterprises are located in MediaCityUK, with expertise spanning digital and media.

The BBC, ITV and Coronation Street, and Kellogg’s are among the more well-known residents. These media giants have undergone a high-profile relocation initiative for several of their departments.

Regeneration and Transport

Manchester is being revamped with a multi-billion pound regeneration project. The project will improve all aspects of the city centre, airport, and general infrastructure.

Manchester is an incredibly well-connected city. However, transport links will only get better with the news of HS2. The rail project is being fed billions of pounds. The project means that train travel in and out of the city will be faster than ever. At half the time it takes now, London will be just over an hour away, putting residents in commuter territory.