Key Highlights
- Ronald De Niro co-founder of Nobu plays a lead role in the development of Viadux Two.
- The £360m skyscraper is set to feature 452 apartments, a 160-key hotel, and a ground floor restaurant by Nobu.
- Construction on Viadux Two began with the kick-off ceremony attended by key stakeholders including De Niro.
- The building will be located in Manchester, UK, and is expected to open in 2031.
Nobu Enters Manchester’s Skyline with £360m Luxury Project
Manchester’s skyline is set for a transformation as the Nobu brand, co-founded by Hollywood icon Robert De Niro, announces its grand plans to enter the city with a towering 76-storey skyscraper. The project, dubbed Viadux Two, is expected to cost £360m and will feature not only a signature Nobu restaurant but also residential spaces and a hotel.
Construction Kickoff
The groundbreaking ceremony for Viadux Two took place on 11 November 2025, marking the official start of construction. The event was attended by key stakeholders including Robert De Niro, chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and Meir Teper from Salboy Development Company. The presence of celebrity figures added a star-studded touch to the occasion.
Simon Ismail, managing director of Salboy, expressed his excitement about the project, stating that Viadux Two will be “the new Manchester landmark” located right in the city centre. He further emphasized its potential as a catalyst for future developments in the area.
Project Details and Development
The skyscraper is designed to rise 246 metres out of Albion Street, with plans including 452 apartments and a 160-key hotel. The building will also feature amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, podium garden, gym, and Nobu dining and in-room service. A standalone, 100% affordable 23-storey block is part of the development, marking a first for the city.
Viadux Two was approved by Manchester City Council in April 2025. The project involves multiple design firms including SimpsonHaugh Architects and other contributors such as Planit, Deloitte, Artal, Jameson Acoustics, Renaissance, Ridge, SLR Consulting, WSP, GIA, Penny Anderson Associates, the University of Salford, Stephen Levrant: Heritage Architecture, Design Fire Consultants, Brownfield Solutions, and Architectural Aerodynamics.
De Niro’s Perspective
Ronald De Niro, co-founder of Nobu, commented on his first visit to Manchester. He stated that the city has a “real character and creative passion.” However, he admitted to knowing little about the city before the project. De Niro expressed hope to return once the tower is completed, suggesting he might still be alive by then.
The development is expected to take six years to build. De Niro likened the occasion of starting construction to his Oscar win, stating it was “very different” and a significant moment in his career.
Local Reactions
The project has garnered mixed reactions from social media users. Many celebrated Manchester’s ambition and progress, while some Liverpool residents expressed jealousy or disappointment at the absence of similar developments in their city.
Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, praised the project as a symbol of the city’s aspiration for world-class excellence. She highlighted the importance of combining top-class hospitality with affordable housing options, reflecting on how these elements contribute to Manchester’s growing status on an international stage.
Viadux Two stands as a testament to the continued growth and development of Manchester, with its first Nobu venue outside London set to bring significant cultural and economic benefits to the city. The project promises to further establish Manchester’s position as a leading destination in luxury hospitality and real estate.
