WORK has begun on a four-month feasibility study into creating the UK's first International Fashion Trade Mart in Manchester.

Chartered accountants Levy Gee, who are urban regeneration funding specialists, are leading the study on behalf of a project team which includes Manchester City Council, English Partnerships and Building Design Partnership.

It is thought the proposed £20 million mart would not only be a showcase for the cream of the region's designers, manufacturers and wholesalers, but would also attract international brand names wanting UK offices and/or showrooms.

All companies would be able to benefit from a range of facilities including cat-walks, exhibition areas, conference rooms and offices.

The mart would be a one-stop shop for retailers, attracting both UK and international buyers.

The idea has secured an anchor tenant, Shami Ahmed, whose portfolio of companies includes Joe Bloggs.

The 250,000 sq ft International Fashion Mart would be built within the disused Royal Mail sorting office in Lever Street.

It would be completely refurbished to create a new landmark.

Jim Gill, English Partnerships' regional director, said: "English Partnerships is pleased to be involved in a scheme which has the potential to act as a focus of regeneration of the northern quarter of Manchester and provide a local base for the design talent in the city's colleges and universities."

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