Manchester is set to welcome the tallest skyscraper outside London, thanks to Hollywood icon Robert De Niro, whose company Nobu Hospitality has received the green light for the ambitious Nobu Manchester project. The 76-storey tower, which will stand at an impressive 807 feet, is designed to house a luxurious 160-bedroom hotel, a signature Nobu restaurant, and 452 high-end residences. The Manchester City Council planning committee approved the project on April 10, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the city and its skyline.
Located on Deansgate, one of Manchester's busiest thoroughfares, Nobu Manchester is part of the larger Viadux development, which aims to transform the city’s urban landscape. This project not only brings luxury accommodations to the area but also addresses the growing need for high-quality housing options. The Nobu tower will be accompanied by a smaller 23-storey building that will provide 133 affordable apartments, further diversifying the housing options available in the city.
The £360 million scheme is being developed by the Manchester-based Salboy Group in partnership with Nobu Hospitality. As noted by Simon Ismail, managing director of Salboy, "Viadux promises to deliver a neighbourhood of high-quality design-led homes that meet Manchester’s substantial need for accommodation at a range of price points and tenure types while bringing to the Manchester cityscape a truly crowning feature." This statement reflects the developers' commitment to creating a vibrant community that caters to both luxury and affordable living.
De Niro, who co-founded Nobu Hospitality with renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa and film producer Meir Teper in 1994, expressed excitement about this venture, stating, "Manchester is a vibrant, world-class city, and we’re proud to be part of a project that will bring the Nobu experience to this destination through a truly exceptional mixed-use project." The Nobu brand, known for its upscale dining and hospitality, currently operates 12 residences worldwide, including locations in Las Vegas, Abu Dhabi, Brazil, and Egypt.
The Nobu Manchester project marks the company’s first entry into the UK luxury real estate market. It follows the successful completion of the first phase of the Viadux development, which included a 40-storey tower with 370 apartments that sold out quickly. The demand for high-end living spaces in Manchester is on the rise, and Nobu’s foray into this sector is a testament to the city’s evolving real estate landscape.
Architects SimpsonHaugh first unveiled plans for the Nobu tower in 2017, and Ian Simpson, co-founder of the firm, emphasized the project’s significance, stating, "Viadux’s phased development has required vision, a pioneering approach, and innovation to bring life back to an urban area in Manchester City Centre on a challenging site that incorporates the restoration of a Grade II listed brick viaduct." This restoration effort highlights the developers' commitment to preserving Manchester's architectural heritage while modernizing its skyline.
As the construction of Nobu Manchester begins, the project is expected to not only redefine the city’s skyline but also enhance its identity on the global stage. The combination of luxury living and essential affordable housing aims to create a balanced community that reflects Manchester’s dynamic growth and aspirations.
With work slated to commence later this year, the Nobu Manchester project is poised to become a landmark destination for both residents and visitors. The integration of high-end amenities, including Nobu dining options, a swimming pool, spa, and gym facilities, will offer a unique lifestyle experience that embodies the Nobu brand. This ambitious development is not just about creating a skyscraper; it’s about fostering a vibrant community that meets the diverse needs of Manchester's population.
In summary, the approval of Nobu Manchester signifies a pivotal moment in Manchester’s architectural and cultural evolution. As the city embraces this new chapter, it reflects a broader trend towards luxury and mixed-use developments that cater to a growing urban population. The project promises to enhance Manchester’s reputation as a leading destination for luxury living and hospitality, setting the stage for future developments in the region.
