The UK’s data regulator has announced plans to relocate its national headquarters to Manchester in what the city has described as a landmark move.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has agreed a lease for a 20,000 sq ft facility at No.3 Circle Square in Manchester’s city centre.
The site is owned by Bruntwood SciTech, a prominent property developer focused on the science and technology sectors backed by Bruntwood, L&G and Greater Manchester Pension Fund.
The Manchester facility will position the ICO alongside fellow tenants Roku, BlueSkeye AI, Avalere Health and HP Enterprise.
The agency, responsible for regulating data protection and digital privacy, has said the move will give it access to a pool of highly-skilled tech workers and supports its ambition to establish a broader, more diverse workforce.
“Our relocation to Circle Square will create a working environment that better supports how we operate now and into the future,” said Jen Green, executive director of strategy and resources at the ICO.
“Moving to Manchester puts us close to universities and other organisations working in data and digital, and will also support our efforts to attract new and diverse talent and strengthen the way we engage with the wider sector.”
The move, expected to take place in autumn 2026, will see the watchdog leave its old headquarters in Wilmslow, Cheshire, where it has been based since its foundation in 1984.
“This move underlines Manchester’s momentum and how Circle Square, which has recently also attracted Puma’s national headquarters, is contributing to it,” added Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council.
“It is further evidence of how attractive our city – with a huge talent pool, access to expertise including from our world class universities, and national and global connections – is proving to employers considering the best place to be.”
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