In 1996 Marks & Spencer commissioned BDP to undertake the design of its biggest store. The flagship Manchester store, located at the heart of the regenerated city centre, covers six levels, and represents a major statement of M&S’s aspirations and image for the future. The design concept delivers long-term flexibility for Marks & Spencer through a functional clarity that divorces the building’s ‘servant functions’, located on the east and west flanks, from the sales area on the north/south axis. This is further expressed through the building’s external envelope, where the fully glazed north and south facades offer dramatic views into the store through the biggest shop windows in Europe. Lifts rise through a spectacular atrium connecting all levels. The principal trading areas are at basement, ground and first floors. Café bars are located on the basement and second floor, with fallow space on the second and third, alongside staff facilities and offices. The decision for Marks & Spencer to remain in the city centre and develop this flagship store has had a major influence on the confidence of adjacent developers. The masterplan, to which BDP made a significant contribution, was developed in the aftermath of the 1996 bombing and is rapidly becoming reality. The streets surrounding the store have been re-constructed, and re-laid with high quality paving. New Cathedral Street now links St Ann’s Square with a new major civic space, Exchange Square.