Manchester’s flagship OMA-designed performance venue is facing further cost increases that could push its price tag above £230m, city councillors are being warned.

Factory International includes a 1,600-seat theatre and a 5,000-capacity space called the warehouse. It was announced by then-chancellor George Osborne in 2014 and named to honour legendary label Factory Records. A licensing deal means the cultural space will be officially known as Aviva Studios.

When the project secured planning permission in 2017 the budget was £110m, with £78m committed from the government. Costs steadily increased and the stood at £210.8m as of October last year. According to Manchester City Council, total government investment in the project now stands at £110m.

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