Harris Associates launches The James Manchester
Harris Associates launches The James Manchester, a prime, fully let, freehold island site Build-to-Rentasset situated in the epicentre of a thriving metropolis.
Harris Studios (Harris Associates in-house marketing agency) much anticipated creative has not disappointed with a first-of-its-kind Comic Book style investment memorandum; embracing Manchester’s rich heritage in publishing, media and industrial innovation.
Harris Associates, the UK’s innovative investment agency, is delighted to announce the launch of The James, Manchester – a fully operational, turnkey Build-to-Rent asset in the heart of Manchester’s sought-after Northern Quarter.
A former shoemakers’ factory, The James has been sensitively redeveloped to deliver 40 premium apartments and two prime commercial units. Setting a new benchmark for quality, The James reflects the evolving expectations of modern city living, delivered within a distinctive building defined by generous ceiling heights and exceptional unit sizes.
Opened to BTR residents in 2023, The James has quickly established itself as one of Manchester’s most desirable rental addresses, achieving a 4.8 out of 5 rating on HomeViews.
Set over ground and four upper storeys, The James comprises 14 one-bedroom and 26 two-bedroom apartments, with an average unit size of 691 sq ft – larger than comparable BTR schemes. Complementing the residential offer is an 10,904 sq ft of fully-let commercial space over the ground and basement levels.
Ideally positioned in Manchester’s lively City Centre, this landmark scheme represents an irreplaceable and best-in-class BTR opportunity featuring hotel-style amenities, which include a well-equipped gym, multilingual concierge services and on-site maintenance.
The James is a top-performing asset with an affluent resident base. Within the building, the current rental income affordability stands at only 29% of Gross Tenant Income. The standardised affordability threshold within Manchester is now as high as 45% of gross income demonstrating an excellent platform for future rental growth in the building.
Manchester itself is thriving with a population increase of over 40% in the last decade, fuelling strong demand in the BTR market. The city continues to attract significant investment and economic momentum, underpinned by major regeneration initiatives. Among the most exciting recent announcements is the Old Trafford Stadium redevelopment, which is projected to generate £7.3 billion annually for the UK economy, create 92,000 new jobs, and attract an additional 1.8 million visitors each year.
As part of the launch, Harris Associates – working in partnership with their internal marketing agency, Harris Studios – has developed a bold, bespoke campaign designed to showcase both the exceptional qualities of the asset and spirit of Manchester to global investors.
The focus of this sales campaign is a comic-style interactive digital magazine, inspired by the bold and energetic aesthetic of 1980s comic books. This creative direction pays homage to Manchester’s rich heritage in publishing, media and industrial innovation. The interactive digital magazine enables investors to immerse themselves in the project and instantly appreciate its best-in-class proposition. Visually distinctive and deeply rooted in local identity, the campaign harnesses the art of storytelling to resonate with both domestic and international audiences.
With its combination of location, design and operational performance, The James represents a rare opportunity to acquire a trophy BTR asset in one of the UK’s most dynamic rental markets. The building’s appeal is underpinned by consistent rental growth in Manchester – averaging at around 11% year-on-year and a loyal resident base that values both design quality and convenience.
Alex Matthews, Head of BTR at Harris Associates, commented:
“The James is the kind of scheme that defines the next generation of Build-to-Rent in the UK – combining best-in-class design with authentic character and operational excellence. This is a standout opportunity to secure a stabilised, income-generating asset in the heart of Manchester’s most vibrant district.”
For further media and press information, please contact:
Emily Purvis
Marketing Manager, Harris Studios
M: +44 7803 530 991
E: [email protected]
Alex Matthews
Head of BTR, Harris Associates
M: +44 7493 400 443
E: [email protected]
Jenna Harris
Partner, Harris Associates
M: +44 7825 427423
E: [email protected]