OBI restores landmark Grade I listed building to distinguished heritage

Manchester, July 2026: Multi-disciplinary property consultancy, OBI, has successfully completed a complex programme of refurbishment works at 82 King Street, the former 1800s Bank of England building. The building was designated Grade I on 25^th February 1952, placing it among the most significant historic buildings in England, as only around 2.5% of listed buildings are Grade I.

As part of the project, delivered on behalf of landlord, Priory Manchester Limited, OBI provided building consultancy services, after obtaining listed building consent from Manchester City Council, comprising a reception refurbishment, new end-of-journey facilities and CAT A works to the fifth floor. With the property remaining almost fully occupied throughout the works, OBI developed a phased delivery strategy that minimised disruption to tenants, including those operating from the ground floor reception area.

The 13-storey building, which benefits from prime city-centre positioning, has undergone basement upgrades such as the installation of electrical car parking points, cycle racks, and the introduction of showers and a changing room to promote sustainable transportation. On the ground floor, occupiers will enjoy a refreshed reception area including new speed gates and seating areas.

OBI, which also offers specialist expertise in leasing, workplace consultancy, and creative, enlisted the help of the studio team to produce the official branding as well as the brochure, and wider marketing of the project.

Since taking on the Asset Management role in 2025, OBI has transacted 40,061 sq ft at the building, securing lease regears with Zeus, Wella, Markel and Regus, alongside a new letting to the popular Federico Wine Bar on the ground floor. 6,059 sq ft of availability currently remains, comprising of the entire fifth floor, which has recently been refurbished to a Cat A standard. The works include new mechanical and electrical installations, forming part of the landlord’s commitment to making the building fully electric. New WCs and lift lobbies have also been completed as part of the works and will be rolled out across all floors.

Dominic Horridge, Building Consultancy at OBI, said: “Working on a historic listed building like 82 King Street requires a careful balance between preserving its heritage and creating a modern, functional workspace. Through close collaboration with the client and project team, we were able to navigate this by delivering a high-quality refurbishment that respected the building’s character while meeting the needs of its occupiers.”