Both based in Liverpool, property consultancy The Momentum Group, and  mechanical and electrical firm, Steven Hunt Associates, will deliver a new leisure concept in Manchester. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool property consultancy The Momentum Group has secured a contract to fit-out and manage the a new leisure concept at Manchester’s Arndale Centre.

Momentum will work with another Liverpool business, specialist mechanical and electrical engineers, Steven Hunt Associates, to deliver THE CUBE LIVE on behalf of Urban Playground, in partnership with Objective Media Group.

THE CUBE LIVE is the world’s first retail format of the ITV entertainment show, THE CUBE. Designed by architects Baranowitz + Kronenberg (B+K), it creates a “world of exploration that sparks play and social interaction”. The venue will open to the public on February 10.

It will offer fans of the award-winning TV show, where contestants attempt seemingly simple tasks within the high-pressure confines of the iconic Perspex box, the opportunity to experience THE CUBE in person for the first time. THE CUBE LIVE chooses seven games that feature on the original TV series.

Accompanying THE CUBE LIVE – across two-storeys of the centre – is Putters. This is a tech-infused crazy golf extravaganza with technology that delivers a nine-hole challenge putting experience.

Momentum is a multi-faceted business that includes advisory, construction, property management, and facilities management services. Steven Hunt Associates celebrated its 30th birthday in 2019 and works on major projects across the UK.

In an interview with LBN in January, Momentum Group co-founder Chris Bliss, who was formerly the estates director at Liverpool ONE, spoke of the challenges faced by retail centres in smaller towns as they look to recover from the impact of the pandemic.

Talking about the Arndale project, Chris said: “There is a recognition that the retail landscape is changing and the shift in the high street to meet the demand for leisure experiences and pursuits is increasing.

“We are thrilled to have been appointed to deliver this project. It is the first concept with more to follow and we look forward to showcasing our services and partnership working with the team at Mellors Group.”

Urban Playground will also be home to the first UK outlet of award-winning food franchise, The Butcher. Created by Yossi Eliyahoo of The Entourage Group, the burger bar concept is already found in several international locations including Amsterdam, Berlin and Ibiza.

Steve Hunt, managing director of Steven Hunt Associates, added: “We have worked with The Momentum Group on several fit-out projects in Liverpool, however this is our first together in Manchester’s Arndale.

“The changing landscape of high streets and growing demand for consumer-experience led leisure presents a great opportunity for our industry and we are excited to be involved in what is going to be a hugely successful attraction in Manchester.”