Downtown in Business has welcomed the appointment of Chris Cheap as managing director of the Atom Valley Northern Gateway Mayoral Development Corporation.
Chris, who worked closely with DIB during his time at Avison Young, brings almost 23 years’ experience with the property advisory firm. Most recently, he led its UK transactional team, overseeing capital markets, leasing and development across the industrial, office and retail sectors.
He will now lead the corporation charged with driving forward Northern Gateway, one of Greater Manchester’s most ambitious regeneration programmes. Part of the wider Atom Valley initiative, the project aims to unlock investment in advanced manufacturing, innovation, housing and infrastructure.
More than £100 million of public funding has already been spent or committed to Northern Gateway, including over £50 million allocated through Greater Manchester’s Good Growth Fund to support transport improvements.
DIB chief executive Frank McKenna said:
“Chris is someone we know well and have thoroughly enjoyed working with over many years. He brings commercial understanding, an extensive network and a clear appreciation of how the public and private sectors can work together to deliver growth.
“This is an excellent appointment for Northern Gateway and an exciting opportunity for Greater Manchester. The ambition now needs to translate into investment, jobs and opportunities for businesses and local communities—and Chris will bring considerable experience and energy to that task.
“Everyone at Downtown wishes him every success. We look forward to working with him again and connecting our business network with the opportunities Northern Gateway will create.”
