What's happening down at the old BBC site on Oxford Road?

Circle Square is set to be a 'new urban destination' and as it takes shape they've commissioned 5 original artworks to capture the spirit of the city.

By Alex Watson | 18 June 2019

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Circle Square is a diverse, new urban destination on a street which is home to the place where the atom was split, where Noel bought his first guitar and where Emmeline sparked change.

The first computer was also built and graphene was invented. The place has continuously thrived and inspired, a concoction of science, technology, arts and culture.  

Located on the old huge BBC site, Circle Square is a joint venture between Bruntwood SciTech and Vita Group and will feature 1 million square foot of workspace, 1700 new homes and over 100,000 square foot of retail space.

At the heart of Circle Square sits the central green, the first and largest new city park for generations, where a variety of community and cultural events will be held to celebrate the city’s dynamic and creative community. Two hotels and a multi-story car park will also provide additional amenity in the area.

As the Square continues to take shape (it’s due for completion in Summer 2020), they’ve commissioned 5 artists have been commissioned to capture the spirit of Circle Square ahead of its completion, each chosen due to their connection with Manchester.

Josh Harrison’s work communicates the symbiotic relationship between the individual and the city and represents accommodation.  

 

Javier’s work represents the retail space, aiming to involve the viewer in an extraordinary area of joy, where fun things and nice stories to remember are happening.

 

The green space is represented by artist Steven Waring whose work depicts the intersection between natural and manmade.

 

Nomad Clan show the living space, explaining that home is the essence of the city. It is tradition, heritage, personal connection, memories, family and friends.

 

The workspaces are demonstrated by artist Lei Mai, shown through cogs. No matter if your role is minor or major, it is vital in keeping the machine as a whole turning.  

Circle Square encourages you to snap selfies with your favourite artwork. Those that share are entered into a draw to win dinner for 2 at Hatch.

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circlesquaremanchester.com