Construction of the new £25m multi-artform complex at First Street has reached its highest point this week marking a huge step forward in the £500m First Street regeneration.

The milestone saw project partners, Manchester City Council and Ask Property Developments, join main contractor, Wates Construction, to celebrate the 'topping out' event at HOME, a ceremony held when a building has reached its upper-most point. Once complete in spring 2015, HOME is formed from the merger of two of Manchester’s best-loves cultural organisations, Cornerhouse and the Library Theatre Company.

HOME, which has been designed by Dutch architects, Mecanoo, will feature a 500-seat theatre; a 150-seat flexible theatre; a 500 sq m, 4m high gallery space; five cinema screens, a café bar and restaurant.

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The project forms part of the first phase of the 20-acre regeneration at First Street, which is being delivered by Manchester City Council’s development partner, Ask Property Developments. The scheme comprises the first INNSIDE hotel in the UK, a Q-Park multi-storey car park, high-end student apartments, retail and leisure units and a new public square.

Estimated to create a total of 11,000 new jobs across the development upon completion, First Street is already attracting high profile occupiers. Engineering service provider Jacobs, digital marketing consultancy Amaze and, most recently, Auto Trader have joined the first phase of development; the 180,000 sq ft BREEAM ‘Excellent’ office scheme, Number One First Street.

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: "This event marks another milestone in the development of one of Manchester’s key regeneration areas. HOME is not just First Street’s cultural heart but is acting as a catalyst to further transformation of the area, attracting other investment and jobs and making a significant contribution to the vibrant mix which makes Manchester a desirable place to be for residents, visitors and businesses alike."

(CD/IT)