Following the recent success at the Amber Business Centre, Riddings joint agents FHP Property Consultants and NG Nattrass Giles are delighted to confirm the letting of Unit 20 to Gliderobes Ltd. Gliderobes have taken a new five year lease of the 14,833ft² factory enabling their relocation from Belper.

Gliderobes specialise in the manufacture and installation of bespoke sliding door wardrobes.

The recent letting underlines the commitment that the Landlord, Commercial Estates Group, has to the estate by investing a six figure sum in making the premises fit for Gliderobes purposes.

Jonathan Sayer, Surveyor at FHP who completed the transaction commented:

“ From first dealing with Gliderobes the flexible approach of our client, Commercial Estates Group and through their commitment to the Estate, we were able to deliver a leasing proposal that met with Glibderobes needs.

With a further 40,000ft² under offer we look forward to reporting more positive news in the near future. We welcome the
opportunity to speak with further occupiers within the area looking to relocate in order that we can illustrate how their requirements can be satisfied at the Amber Business Centre.

We wish John and all his team at Gliderobes all the best success for their future.”

FHP Property Consultants are pleased to announce the letting of Unit 3C at Shipstones Business Centre in New Basford.

Following a large scale refurbishment of a range of offices and industrial properties at the Business Centre, Unit 3C, an open span warehouse unit, has now been let to the Blue Whale Spa.  Blue Whale Spa and are an online retailer of hot tubs and sauna rooms and have seen excellent demand for their products.

Shipstones Business Centre offers quality warehousing and office accommodation on a gated and landscaped site with extensive on site car parking and security services.  The units have all been recently refurbished to provide a high quality working environment which is also very presentable to visitors.

Ann Pye at John Pye and Sons, the Landlords, commented:

“Naturally, we are delighted that Blue Whale Spa have chosen to expand their operations at our site at the Shipstones Business Centre.  We wish them every success with their future plans.”

Mark Tomlinson, Surveyor at FHP commented:

“It is pleasing to see that small local businesses are beginning to look more progressively at future expansion despite the ongoing economic conditions.  This letting follows another recent deal which saw another local company relocate to the site in order that their expansion plans could be realised.”

For the further information on this deal or for information on the opportunities available at Shipstones Business Centre please contact Mark Tomlinson at FHP on 0115 8411134 or email mark@fhp.co.uk.

On behalf of private investor clients, following vacation by the current tenant, FHP have been appointed to market modern high bay warehousing space in Hucknall.

With the benefit of an eaves height of 11 metres, this is a superb building providing a great opportunity for any distribution user to take advantage of the volume created by the excellent warehouse accommodation and potentially obtain significant cost savings as a result.

Set on its own site, providing ample delivery access and circulation space plus parking, the building will be immediately available to purchase or rent and early interest is sought.

Totalling just over 30,000ft² this is a sector of the market which has limited stock available at present and it is hoped that the building will be well received, particularly as it is offered on a new lease or alternatively to purchase.

For full information please contact Tim Gilbertson at FHP on 0115 9507577.

As a result of the forthcoming relocation of our clients, Nyland Graphics, FHP have been instructed to dispose of their superb fully fitted factory and warehouse facility in Alfreton.

Set moments off the A38 and therefore within very quick access of Junction 28 of the M1, the building is fully fitted offering a mix of two storey offices to the front elevation and production space beyond.

With extensive level access doors, the building is ready for occupation and perhaps its key benefit, which we see as being a major marketing point in our campaign, is the extensive expansion land to the rear of the site of approximately 1 acre.

As a result of the expansion land we anticipate good levels of interest in this building with marketing now kicking into full effect and hopefully our anticipated levels of interest will be achieved over the forthcoming weeks.

As a 

Midlands property consultancy FHP has completed one of the biggest industrial warehouse lettings in the country this year with the signing of contracts on a deal which will see a major food retailer consolidate its regional distribution on to another major site owned by Clowes Developments.

The Co-operative Group, the fifth largest food retailer in the UK, has signed a pre-let for a 477,100 square foot industrial warehouse at Castlewood, a strategic distribution park alongside the M1 corridor in the East Midlands. It has taken a 20-year lease at an initial rental of £4.60 per square foot. It is investing around £22 million in the development of the new facility, which will employ around 900 people.

The deal was secured on behalf of landlord Clowes Developments by FHP industrial partner John Proctor. He says it is likely to be the first of many in an area which has both the location and the labour force to service major distribution clients in retail, industrial and logistics.

John Proctor said: “This is the culmination of a long-term effort to market this area as an ideal location for industrial and warehousing activities. Clowes’ decision to purchase the portfolio containing Castlewood has also proved astute, coming at a time when retailers are looking to consolidate regional operations on high-quality strategic sites.

“Clowes Developments now owns two of the most prominent distribution warehouse sites in the East Midlands’ M1 corridor. The East Midlands Distribution Centre at Junction 24 has already attracted Marks & Spencer, which is one of the biggest votes of confidence you can get in the retail distribution market.

“Co-operative Group’s decision to sign up to Castlewood is likely to have a similar effect. The site is less than a mile from Junction 28, which unites the north-south M1 with the east-west A38, which puts businesses in the retail and distribution markets in the perfect position to service the East Midlands and South Yorkshire.”

The Castlewood deal reflects the current trend among major retailers to focus on fewer, larger distribution hubs. Co-operative Group will replace two smaller food retail warehouses with a single site likely to employ up to 900 people – mostly current staff transferring from the existing locations but with around 130 new recruits.

John Proctor added: “It is no coincidence that the country’s fifth largest food retailer opted for this site. They can call on an experienced workforce from the surrounding area and they know they are dealing with a developer with a long track record of delivering what major clients look for.

“Inquiries of the Co-operative Group’s calibre don’t crop up every week, and the fact that they have signed up to Castlewood will raise its profile significantly. The infrastructure is in place, the location is excellent and there is a demand for facilities like this.”

A planning application for the Co-operative Group building has now been submitted, with work due to start on site by the end of this year and the facility coming on stream in early 2013. The project will be managed by First Industrial Developments.

James Richards, of Clowes Developments, said: “This is an important milestone in the development of Castlewood Business Park, one which we believe will open the door to further significant inquiries. The Co-operative Group’s decision to come here is a testament to a very high quality location.”

The Co-operative Group’s move is part of the restructuring of its national food distribution network, with similar hubs in Hampshire, Lancashire, County Durham and Scotland.

Ian Smith, The Co-operative Group’s Head of Logistics for the Northern Region, said: “Castlewood is an excellent location to serve our stores throughout the North Midlands and surrounding area. This is a major investment in, and commitment to, the local community.

“The Co-operative Group’s food business has grown significantly in recent years and our logistics operation has undergone a major overhaul to develop accordingly. This investment will help us to continue to provide high standards of service to our customers while also allowing for future growth.”

Acting on behalf of private investor clients, Tim Gilbertson of FHP is pleased to confirm the sale of substantial industrial premises at Anglia Way, Mansfield together with a large yard.

At a time when freehold sales are few and far between due to the difficulty in purchasers obtaining funding, it was pleasing to see this deal over the line and what should result in the rejuvenation of a unit which has stood empty for some time. 

Sold to Morley Waste Traders (Mansfield) Limited, the sale will see the unit brought back to life after the former occupiers went into receivership.

Tim Gilbertson commented:

“Freehold sales in mid-range stock remain few and far between due to the scarcity of funding and there is still some caution and nervousness in the market.  This deal has bucked the trend and once agreed has followed through to exchange and completion quickly and we wish the new occupiers well.

The building benefits from a large yard and whilst in need of some upgrade and improvement the new owners will no doubt attend to this and add value to their asset for years to come.”

For further details or to see how FHP can help sell your building please contact us on 0115 9507577.

The new 1,000,000ft² distribution centre for Marks & Spencer at Clowes Developments EMDC is rapidly taking
shape.  The first 300,000ft² will be handed over the Marks & Spencer for initial fit out in August.  This is one of the largest distribution units under construction in the UK rivalled by Amazon’s 1,000,000ft² in Scotland and B&Q’s 800,000ft² unit in Swindon.  Clowes Developments are shortly to re-launch the next phase of marketing – the site still has the capability to provide cross docked units of up to 545,000ft² in size.

Tim Gilbertson of FHP in conjunction with Chris Sinclair of Innes England, has been instructed to market two high quality warehouse or industrial units in Alfreton, available to purchase individually or as a pair. 

Each of the detached buildings benefit from an excellent specification offering clear span production and storage space together with two storey quality offices.

Tim Gilbertson commented:

“It will be an interesting test of market conditions to see how well these properties fare.  

Traditionally, good quality space in Alfreton to purchase has been hard to find and my suspicion is, with the market showing signs of life at present, that we will be pleasantly surprised and receive strong interest in the buildings. 

Unit 8 has already been put into exemplary order by our clients and is fitted and ready for immediate occupation. 

Unit 7 will be presented in similar condition by our clients, should the proposed purchasers so wish, or alternatively, it can be purchased as it stands currently.

Each of the buildings benefits from its own large delivery yard and with an unrivalled location, literally adjoining the A38 and therefore within minutes of Junction 28 of the Motorway.  The properties offer a terrific opportunity for any expanding local company.”

Chris Sinclair commented:

“I am sure that the proven location and quality of accommodation will appeal to a broad sector of the industrial market.  Demand in this location is encouraging and the flexible nature of the accommodation will meet most if not all of the current occupiers needs.  Indeed extra office facilities could easily be incorporated within the existing warehouse area either on one or two floors”.

Any parties wishing to view or discuss should contact either of the joint agents, Chris Sinclair at Innes England or Tim Gilbertson at FHP.  

The steel skeleton for what will be one of the region’s biggest buildings is being erected in Castle Donington.

Within two months, contractors will have put up 3,600 tonnes of structural steelwork for Marks and Spencer’s giant distribution centre.

The frame itself is over 30m high and is now visible from both the A50 and the M1.

The floorspace created for the building at the East Midlands Distribution Centre is as large as ten football pitches.

The multi-million-pound development is on course to be completed by December 5.

It is expected to employ hundreds of people once it is fully operational.

Construction work on a new rail terminal for the site is scheduled to begin in June.

There will be a rail siding with a 25m wide yard for offloading containers and an office, all to be finished by December 5.

Built on the former power station site in Castle Donington, management contractor Winvic currently has a total of 140 people on site. In the next few weeks, this number is expected to rise to 250 as work accelerates.

The deal to bring Marks & Spencer to Castle Donington was put together by Brailsford-based Clowes Developments which owns the land alongside their advisers FHP.

Paul Shanley is a director at Clowes Developments.

He said: "Seeing a building of this size go up has been just amazing and the first section will be handed over to Marks and Spencer in August."

A similar warehouse that opened in Bradford last year cost £40m to build and is expected to employ 1,200 when fully operational.

John Proctor, partner at property consultancy FHP took the latest pictures of the building site.

He said: "The sheer scale of the steel framework is absolutely breathtaking and I’ve never seen anything quite like it."

It will become the first Marks & Spencer warehouse to have a rail freight terminal.

Clowes Developments is investing some £7m to link the East Midlands Distribution Centre to the rail line between Birmingham and Nottingham.

Last year Clowes signed a deal with Network Rail for a connection to the site.

From this connection, there will be a 1.5-mile stretch of track leading to the rail terminal.

If everything goes to plan, the rail link could be in use next year, enabling Marks & Spencer to bring in goods directly from deep-sea ports and from the Channel Tunnel.

Clowes has become a major player in the industrial warehouse market, having recently announced a deal which will bring a new Co-Operative Group food distribution depot to its Castlewood site near South Normanton.

More than 130 new posts will be created at a site expected to employ 900 people in total.

Acting in conjunction with their clients, Joseph Ogden Estates, Tim Gilbertson of FHP has recently overseen the completion of a substantial letting just off the M1 at Sherwood Park at Junction 27.

The deal concluded sees Autofil, one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of polyester yarns in Europe expand into this additional facility to enable their onward growth and success.

Tim Gilbertson of FHP commented:

“This is a significant letting as it sees one of the best buildings in the area occupied again and enables Autofil to expand.

We were delighted to be asked to market this unit on behalf of our clients, particularly as it offered such high quality, well specified space and following vacation by the former occupier, was presented in exemplary order. 

Our clients have worked hard in conjunction with the tenants to agree a deal which suits all parties and we wish them both well for the future.”

Since Commercial Estates Group purchased the Amber Business Centre in November 2010 the estate has gone from strength to strength. Jonathan Sayer and Laura West Surveyors at FHP Property Consultants acting alongside joint agent Andy Smith of NG Nattrass Giles are delighted to confirm 8 new additions to the Amber Business Centre, Green Hills Lane, Riddings.

Recent activity at the estate since it was acquired by our client, Commercial Estate Group includes:

• SJH Joinery have taken a lease of Unit 18.5 extending to 2,238ft² by way of a 5 year term. SJH Joinery specialise in custom campervan interiors and conversions and van conversions.
• Ultracover UK have taken a new 5 year lease of Unit 18.3 which extends to 2,238ft². Ultracover will operate the site as a warehouse and distribution centre for their specialist roofing material supplying to trade.
• C&E Power have taken a new 3 year lease of Unit 17.4 extending to 1,080ft². C&E Power specialise in the design, installation and commission of uninterruptable power supplies.
• Yummy Cheesecakes have taken a new lease of Unit 17.3 extending to 700ft² catering for any occasion from birthdays to office parties to barbeques or a simple family get together Yummy cheesecakes can offer anything and everything from dark chocolate to passion fruit or blueberry.
• TN Decking have taken a new 3 year lease of Unit 17.1 extending to 700ft². The unit will act as a showroom to showcase for the sale and fitting of decking and associated gardening equipment.
• Fly Away Limited have taken a new 5 year lease of Unit 15.2 extending to 1,200ft². Fly Away Limited specialise in the preparation of insect repellents for the equestrian trade.
• Hunts Quality Cooked Meats Limited have taken a 3 year lease of Unit 17.8 extending to 1,463ft² specialise in the preparing of cooked meats.
• Wilmart Enterprises Limited have taken a 3 year lease of unit 15.1 extending to 1,200ft²

Jonathan Sayer, Surveyor at FHP commented:

“The recent success at Amber has been very rewarding. Since our clients acquired the site, we have welcomed 8 new tenants to the small unit schemes, 6 of which have moved in over the past 3 months. The recent success underlies the excellent value and flexibility that is shown at Amber Business Centre. From viewing the units, occupiers requirements are understood and terms submitted in order that we can progress enquiries through to end transactions.

Laura West, Surveyor at FHP added:-

“The recent take up of space underlines the hard work and commitment from the Landlord through good estate management and relationships with their tenants. I am delighted to be part of this successful estate and with further units under offer to a wide variety of different businesses we look forward to reporting more positive news for you in the upcoming future.”

Andy Smith of NG Chartered Surveyors stated:-

“When CEG purchased the estate there was 180,000 of vacant space. Since taking the estate on through proactive management of the existing tenants and via a sustained marketing campaign over 50% of the space has been let or is under offer. This goes against the trend in the market of slow moving transactions and difficult deals. CEG’s success is down to a hands on approach to providing flexible terms tailored to suit the occupier and their ability to move quickly to get a tenant into their new business space.”

Antonia Martin Wright of Commercial Estates Group commented:-

“We are delighted with the purchase of Amber Business Centre and are pleased with the way that we have revitalised the estat. CEG have enhanced the estate through investment, in order to create a central hub of business activity within the Derby locality. At CEG we believe in working with our tenants in order to secure them the best lease terms. We can offer flexibility and excellent quality accommodation to suit any occupier”

The Amber business Centre is situated within easy reach of the A38 and A610 Dual Carriageway whilst being within striking distance of Junctions 26, 27 & 28 of the M1 Motorway. The Industrial Estate is home to a wide range of occupiers including ETS, Derwent Upholstery and Rockwood Electronics. The estate can accommodate virtually any size requirements ranging from 58m² (624ft²) to 389m² (47,240ft²) and the agents welcome the opportunity to speak with occupiers to discuss their requirements which offers:

• Units ready for immediate occupation
• Rent free available
• Flexible terms
• On site security
• View today, occupy tomorrow

For further details on opportunities at the Amber Business Centre please contact:

Jonathan Sayer at FHP on:                       01332 343222

Laura West at FHP on:                             0115 950 7577

Andy Smith at NG Nattrass Giles on:          0115 958 8599

The latest phase of Chartwell Property’s 33,215ft² Rani Business Park is now fully occupied after joint agents, NG Chartered Surveyors and FHP Property Consultants, secured a further three lettings in quick succession on the latest phase of the development with C F Parkinsons Ltd, Scott Christian Ltd and One Stop Interiors having joined Trekmates and Jones & Co on the Basford Scheme.

The last unit has been taken by One Stop Interiors in a deal brokered by Sunny Landa of NG, who said:-

“This was an easy deal to agree as the scheme largely sells itself. One Stop Interiors is a family run company, which provides furnishings for residential apartments across the UK, were attracted by the high specification of the space and its imposing eaves height which will enable them to install a substantial mezzanine storage level”. 

James Dale and Diane Robey of Onestop Interiors commented:-

“The close proximity to all areas of the city, ample parking and ease of access for customers using our showroom and trade counter were all factors that made this site perfect for us”.

Laura West of joint agents, FHP observed:-

“It is pleasing to work with good quality product such as this, the quick take up of space is a reflection upon the high quality of accommodation that has been delivered at Rani Drive.  Interest in the scheme has been strong from the initial stages of construction and it demonstrates that demand for well placed and high quality industrial accommodation exists.”

Many in the local property market thought the developers were brave to embark upon a speculative industrial development in the depths of a recession, but the results prove the adage that fortune favours the brave. 

The last phase of the Business Park was undertaken speculatively by Chartwell Property; the property vehicle of brothers Steve, Jack and Gary Digva who commented:-

“We are absolutely delighted that the project is now complete, it’s been a job well done by all involved and it shows that there is an appetite for well specified, modern B1/B8 business space in the city.  We have achieved our target price of £5.00 psf without having resisted giving away substantial concessions or incentives and one of the tenants even took a straight 15 year lease which is almost unheard of in the current market conditions.  In total, we have administered almost 115,000 sq ft of office and industrial accommodation on the Rani Business Park.  The last string of lettings now mean that it is 100% occupied which is a great result.”

For further details please contact either Laura West at FHP Property Consultants or Sunny Landa at NG Chartered Surveyors.

FHP are delighted to announce yet another letting at Enterprise Park on Wigwam Lane in Hucknall.  Continental Autoparts Limited are the latest tenant to take advantage of the quality space and attractive deals being offered on the park and are the fourth tenant to sign upon the site this year.

Mark Tomlinson of FHP commented:

“With fewer tenants defaulting on their leases and the continued lettings success that we are experiencing on the park we are heading towards fairly decent of occupation on the site.  The site is also due to undergo an extensive refurbishment programme and we are confident that the space will sell itself to more local companies.”

Charlie Withers of Cedarwood Asset Management commented:

“We are delighted to welcome Continental Autoparts to Enterprise Park.  We are able to offer flexible leases, and potential freehold sales to occupiers on units from 1,250ft² to 10,290ft² on attractive terms, which is certainly generating good interest.  We are also about to start a range of  improvement works including external redecoration of the vacant units, and the provision of electric gates at the entrance to the scheme which will make Enterprise Park an even more attractive location for  local businesses.”

If you would like any further information on the remaining accommodation on offer at Enterprise Park then please contact Mark Tomlinson at FHP on 0115 8411134 or email mark@fhp.co.uk.

DERBYSHIRE-based Clowes Developments has chalked up another big success with a major retailer, cementing its position as a national player in the market for industrial distribution space.

It is in the process of tying up the final details of a deal which will see retail giant The Co-operative Group build a 480,000 sq ft food distribution facility at the Castlewood Business Park site near Junction 28.

The Co-op deal comes in the wake of a decision by fellow High Street major Marks & Spencer to take an even bigger space at the East Midlands Distribution Centre at Castle Donington.

Together, the two deals will satisfy major strategic requirements for national retail businesses while providing employment for hundreds of people.

The deals have underlined the emergence of Clowes as a major player, establishing it as the largest developer of prime industrial distribution space in the country this year.

A planning application is shortly to be submitted for the new facility, and the move looks likely to spark renewed activity at the Castlewood site.

Plans to develop employment space near the site stretch back years, having first been mooted around the time that the McCarthur Glen retail outlet was established.

Land issues meant that the idea did not proceed, but Wilson Bowden Developments brought forward new proposals after a neighbouring site with access from the A38 became available.

It developed road links, site infrastructure and two speculative buildings on the site, but the market collapse in the wake of the credit crunch saw the development stall.

Castlewood was part of a major portfolio of land and property assets bought from Wilson Bowden Developments by Clowes Developments back in 2009 for in excess of £50m, a move which gave privately-owned Clowes a major development opportunity and raised its profile considerably.

James Richards, of Clowes Developments, said: “We are a long-established, highly-professional and very carefully run company which has substantial experience of successful commercial development. That approach has served us well over a long period in a market which has always been cyclical.

“That same measured approach is the reason why we chose to take advantage of the opportunities presented by a portfolio which included such strategically important assets such as the East Midlands Distribution Centre and Castlewood Business Park.

“The deals which we have done with Marks & Spencer and now The Co-operative Group demonstrate that these sites have major potential in the industrial distribution market which is looking for strategic locations capable of serving the East Midlands and beyond.

“We are delighted by the prospect of welcoming The Co-operative Group to Castlewood and we look forward to working with them closely in the coming months.”

John Proctor, industrial partner with the Nottingham surveyors FHP, represented Clowes Developments in the Co-op deal.

He said: “The Co-operative Group has been restructuring its distribution network across the UK, and the decision to build a new food distribution depot at Castlewood is part of a strategy that has seen them commit to similar developments in Andover, Avonmouth and Scotland.

“They shortlisted a number of sites in the East Midlands, but there were two key factors which worked in Castlewood’s favour. One is that it is only a short distance from the existing facilities at Bulwell and Alfreton, which enables them to transfer their existing workforce.

“The other is that Castlewood is a site which is ready to go, and they know that in Clowes they are partnering with a developer which has a well-established reputation for professionalism and commitment.

“Bringing an occupier as high-profile as The Co-operative Group on to the site is bound to add momentum to a location which is very well-placed to take advantage of an improving market, and we are already in advanced discussions about the two existing buildings on the site.”

Acting on behalf of ITW, Jonathan Sayer of FHP Property Consultants has secured the letting of Unit 2 Azalea Close, Clovernook Industrial Estate to Grangers International. The deal concluded sees Grangers International taking on an additional 13,006ft² warehouse until June 2014 to accommodate a picking and packing line located only moments from their existing headquarters at Grange Close.
Grangers International are an established manufacturer of waterproof coatings that protect all types of fabrics, leather and composite materials.  Grangers specialise in shoe-care products through their leading brand Cherry Blossom, along with supplying own-brand shoe polish to a number of leading retailers.  
The Letting was negotiated by Jonathan Sayer at FHP who acted on behalf of ITW commented:-
“The recent letting to Grangers International is excellent news. My client has been able to reduce their holding costs at the property whilst Grangers International have been able to meet their requirements for additional warehousing only moments from their existing base.
I wish Grangers International all the best in their new premises and with further units available within the Alfreton area welcome the opportunity to discuss occupiers’ requirements.”
Marc Ballard of Salloway acted on behalf of Grangers International.

Acting on behalf of Aberdeen Asset Managers, Jonathan Sayer of FHP Property Consultants has secured the letting of Unit 4 Raynesway Industrial Estate to Rexel Senate Limited who will trade under the Senate Eectrical fascia.  The deal concluded sees Senate Electrical relocating from Ascot Drive to take on the new high quality trade counter unit off Raynesway and adjacent to Derby Commercial Park. 

Rexel Senate are a worldwide distributor of electrical supplies with a range of over 20,000 products for same day/next day delivery.  Through their network of 80 branches throughout the UK they distribute electrical products from leading manufacturers in all electrical areas including lighting, lamps, cables, wiring and accessories, safety, security and ventilation.

The letting was negotiated by Jonathan Sayer at FHP on behalf of the Landlord who commented:-

‘The Raynesway Industrial Estates benefits from an excellent location being situated just off Raynesway giving brilliant connections to the A50 and A52 dual carriageways and Derby City Centre. The unit was well presented and benefited from excellent frontage to Raynesway thus making it the ideal choice for trade counter operators.

The letting sees Senate Electrical join existing trade counter occupiers including Fresh Island Foods and Raynesway Tile Warehouse. We wish Senate Electrical all the best in their new premises and with further units available welcome the opportunity to discuss your requirements.’

Peter Warrington of Warrington Scarlett acted on behalf of Senate Rexel.

Alan Throw, Branch Manager for Senate Electrical commented:-

“We are very pleased with our new location and hope the General Public as well as our existing customer base enjoy the new surroundings.”

Pictured from left to right Jonathan Sayer of FHP; Alan Throw of Senate Electrical and Sarah Hayes of MK Honeywell.

Working jointly with Thompson Yates Chartered Surveyors, East Midlands leading property agents, FHP are delighted to announce their appointment to sell the 3.606 hectare (8.913 acre) former Bell & Webster Site located off Thurgaton Lane, Hoveringham.

The site with sizeable yard benefits from high bay warehouse space with 23’7’’ (7.8m) eaves, 2 x 12 tonne and 4 x 10 tonne and 1 x 5 tonne overhead cranes. The three bay Industrial Complex provides 6,045m² (65,057ft²) on 2.594 hectares (6.413 acres) including two storey offices, canteen/rest room, shower and WC facilities. Adjacent to the main site there is a further compound of 1.012 hectares (2.5 acres).

The premises are conveniently located in the Trent Lane Industrial area just off the A612 between the villages of Hoveringham and Thurgaton which in turn provide access onto the A6097 and A52 thereafter linking Nottingham to Derby. The A46, Leicester to Lincoln road is approximately 6 miles away and the A1 providing convenient access to Newark which is approximately 12 miles to the North East of the site.  

Laura West commented:-

“I am pleased to have been appointed by Thompson Yates to dispose of this unique site and premises which is likely to appeal to a wide range of industrial occupiers mainly due to the accommodation offering high bay economical warehousing space with generous overhead craneage facilities. We are confident that the sizeable yard will also appeal and are happy to report interest from the early stages of marketing. Available for sale, the site and premises should be viewed in order to fully appreciate the available accommodation on offer.”

For further information on the site and premises please contact Laura West on 0115 841 1149.

Acting on behalf of SEGRO, joint agents FHP and Innes England have completed the letting of 420 Air Cargo Centre to Laser Optical Limited.  Laser Optical Engineering Limited has taken a new 5 year lease of the warehouse premises extending to 3,970ft² and has enabled them to relocate from the Innovation Centre at Loughborough University. 

Laser Optical Engineering Limited specialise in the development of innovative and bespoke laser based products and services.  Established in 1996 the company is a spin out from Loughborough University and are active in the fields of non destructive testing, laser safety, laser beam shaping and laser vision systems.  

Jonathan Sayer of FHP who agreed the letting on behalf of SEGRO commented:

“The last 12 months have been extremely challenging and we are now beginning to see some brighter lights on the horizon.  East Midlands Airport is a strong business location providing excellent transport links both to the M1 and the wider motorway network whilst providing direct links to many European and International destinations. 

The Air Cargo Centre offers recently refurbished units immediately available on flexible terms. The new unit offered Laser Optical the correct balance of accommodation in order provide room for future growth and wish them all the best for their in their new premises

With further units available at the scheme, we welcome the opportunity to speak with occupiers to demonstrate how we can accommodate your requirements at the Air Cargo Centre.”

Jane Leedham, Leasing Manager at SEGRO commented:-

“We are delighted to welcome Laser Optical Engineering to the Air Cargo Centre. They join a number of other high quality occupiers who operate at or with the airport and we look forward to supporting them grow and succeed with us.”

Fiona Warner of Laser Optical Engineering Limited commented:-

“This is an exciting move for Laser Optical as we have moved away from the shared facilities of the Innovation Centre and into our own premises.  The size and location of the unit is perfect for our company and we look forward to a successful future in our new location.”  

The Air Cargo Centre forms part of the East Midlands Airport Campus and has direct access to the main motorway network and home to BMI, British Airways World Cargo, LSG Sky Chef and DHL. East Midlands Airport is the UK’s busiest pure cargo airport, second only to Heathrow handling over 300,000 tonnes of flown cargo every year.

SEGRO is Europe’s leading provider of flexible business space and they are predominantly warehouse and industrial focused asset base concentrated in and around the major business centres and transportations hubs including; ports, airports and motorway intersections.  The group serves over 1,900 customers spread across many Geographic areas and has approximately 5.9 million square metres of built space under management.

Pictured left to right: Professor John Tyrer, Laser Optical, Jonathan Sayer, FHP Property Consultants

FHP acting as joint agents alongside DWW are delighted to confirm the letting of warehouse premises at Stoney Cross Industrial Estate, Derby to AudioSpares. AudioSpares have taken a new seven year lease of the industrial premises extending to 4,468ft²

AudioSpares supply high quality audio and studio spares, components, music accessories and parts including their own AudioSpares brand and are re-sellers of Neutrik, Lynx, WBT, Deltron, Stagg, Citronic, AVSL and other leading brands. The relocation from Nottingham will enable the company to further expand its existing product range of several thousand products.
Jonathan Sayer, Surveyor at FHP who negotiated the letting, commented:

“This letting to AudioSpares is particularly pleasing. The high quality modern unit is fitted very well for their requirements given the nature of their products the extensive mezzanine store will be well utilised by AudioSpares. We wish them all the best for the future and hope that this new facility will be the springboard to further develop their business”

Kev Parker of Audio Spares commented as follows:

“AudioSpares are excited to have completed this move. The new modern premises help resolve a number of space and logistical problems for the company, which has enjoyed strong performance despite challenging economic conditions, and provides us an ideal base for further growth. ”
For further details of further industrial opportunities in the Derby area please contact Jonathan Sayer at FHP on 01332 343222.

Acting on behalf of Walker & Sons Hauliers Limited, agent Laura West of FHP Property Consultants is delighted to report further occupancy on the popular Industrial Estate located off Hamilton Road, Sutton in Ashfield. The site offers a wide range economical warehousing space with excellent eaves height, an ideal solution for any contract lead requirement.

Merritt Storage Solutions Limited are the latest occupiers to sign up to 40,000 sq ft on the estate, the deal that was brokered in record time allowing for extremely quick occupation within a 48 hour time frame. Merritts, who are a large occupier and employer within the local area are seeing the rewards of careful business planning over recent years and as such have now been able to expand their business fairly rapidly in 2011.  

James Merritt comments:-

“Our Storage & Warehousing business has seen tremendous growth over the last 2 years as businesses locally and regionally look for a cost effective and flexible alternative to traditional medium and long term lease commitments. We have recently been accredited as an HMRC bonded warehouse for storage of imported goods under VAT and Duty suspension and we intend to develop this accreditation to become an import and export centre for the East Midlands.

The business has worked closely with FHP Property Consultants to find the correct type of facilities at the right price point in the North Nottinghamshire area and I am very pleased that we have been able to make the recent deals happen. We intend to grow our capacity quickly and plan to have 1 million sq ft of managed space within the next five years."

All enquiries to www.merritt-storage.co.uk or call free on 0800 046 9840. 

Laura West comments:-

“This recent letting was engineered over the ability to offer a unit ready for immediate occupation that presented well. The available units at Hamilton Road remain popular due to their strategic location close to the A38 and J28 of the M1 motorway, with many of the units offering craneage and secure yards.

With some confidence returning to the market in general, it is hoped that we can look forward to further transactions in 2011. With interest in the remaining 30,000 sq ft at Hamilton Road, we are confident it won’t be long until 100% occupancy is achieved.”

For further details please contact either Laura West at FHP Property Consultants.

FHP are delighted to announce the letting of Unit 3A at Shipstones Business Centre in New Basford.

Following a large scale refurbishment of a range of offices and industrial properties at the Business Centre, Unit 3A, an open span warehouse unit with ancillary offices, has now been let to Kitronik Limited.  Kitronik have relocated from their office and storage units at Lenton Business Centre to expand their operation within this newly refurbished unit.

Shipstones Business Centre offers quality accommodation on a gated and landscaped site with extensive on site car parking and security services.

Kevin Spurr at Kitronik commented:

“By moving to Shipstones Business Centre we feel that Kitronik Ltd is now well placed to maintain the rapid growth of the last few years.  This has seen Kitronik become one the leading UK suppliers of products and resources into the design and technology departments of secondary schools.  We looked at many sites and felt that the Shipstones Business Centre was the tidiest and most suitable for our needs.”

Ann Pye at John Pye and Sons commented:

“Naturally, we are delighted that Kitronik chose to relocate to our site at the Shipstones Business Centre and we wish them every success with their exciting expansion plans."

Mark Tomlinson, Surveyor at FHP commented:

“This letting goes to show that if Landlords present properties to the market in good condition to be immediately occupied then they stand a much better chance of finding a Tenant.  Even in this difficult market place we are seeing decent levels of activity which properties such as this will continue to benefit from”

For the further information on this deal or for information on the opportunities available at Shipstones Business Centre please contact Mark Tomlinson at FHP on 0115 8411134 or email mark@fhp.co.uk.

Acting on behalf of M7 Real Estate FHP are pleased to confirm the letting of Units 8a & 9 Booths Industrial Estate, Ilkeston to Salvage Cars. The car company who specialise in the repair and sale of damaged cars from insurance companies were looking for larger premises and to increase their presence within the East Midlands area and have secured a 6 year lease on the two units totalling to 12,864ft².

Mr Singh, of Salvage Cars commented:-

“We are very happy with our new premises at Booths Industrial Estate. It is the ideal location for us to improve our presence in the market and allow the company to grow. The move to new premises could not have been achieved without the help and guidance of George Dunnicliff at FHP.”

George Dunnicliff, Surveyor at FHP commented:-

“FHP has had successful involvement with Booths Industrial Estate in the past and by securing Salvage Cars, further strengthens the tenant mix on the estate. The space will allow them to expand its operation in the East Midlands and continue natural growth.  We wish Mr Singh and the rest of his team all the best for the future.  Having recently put Unit 2 under offer, we look forward to reporting details of this letting shortly”

FHP are currently marketing a number of other industrial units on Booths Industrial Estate and in the Ilkeston area. To discuss your industrial requirement or for further information on opportunities in the area please contact George Dunnicliff or Jonathan Sayer on 01332 343222 at FHP.

Pictured left to right- George Dunnicliff of FHP and Mr Singh of Salvage Cars.

FHP are delighted to announce yet further activity at Enterprise Park on Wigwam Lane in Hucknall.  Following previous successes, the industrial estate continues to generate good interest from new tenants and retain its existing tenants despite attractive deals being offered elsewhere.

Spectrum Paints are the latest tenant to state their intentions to remain on the estate and have signed a new 5 year lease. 

Zenteq Limited have also signed up to the site on a 2,000ft² unit having expanded their operations out of Lincolnshire.

Tom Horncastle of Lightstone (Midlands) Limited, the landlords commented:

“Lightstone is delighted with the recent renewals and lettings on the estate. Our day-to-day close contact with our tenants enables us to serve their business needs in a timely and open manner. We hope that these successful relationships continue and look forward to attracting new, exciting businesses to the estate in the future.” 

Mark Tomlinson of FHP, agents on the property, commented:

“It is very pleasing to see that we are achieving high occupation levels on the site.  Our efforts in letting the available space are helped with the successful retention of the existing tenants and it is very good to see that the tenants are happy here.

We also have a number of other deals in the pipeline for the estate which we expect to complete before the end of the month.”

If you would like any further information on the available accommodation at Enterprise Park then please contact Mark Tomlinson at FHP on 0115 9507577.

Acting on behalf of Liverpool Victoria Friendly Society, Tim Gilbertson BSc (Hons) MRICS, Partner of FHP has confirmed the completion of a lease on the only available unit on Easter Park to IPSol Energy.  The deal concluded sees, despite these ongoing difficult times, full occupation yet again on this estate of thirteen units. 

The estate is wholly owned by Liverpool Victoria, who Tim Gilbertson has acted for now for nearly 10 years.

Tim Gilbertson commented:

“Having acted on behalf of the owners of this estate for nearly 10 years now, to consistently let the units which become vacant, and achieve full occupation for our clients yet again is very satisfying.

Even in the most difficult of times, this estate has always let well as it really does still set the benchmark for high quality space in terms of design, layout and indeed location.  Having the benefit of being just off Nottingham’s Ring Road and therefore within very quick access of the centre of Nottingham and easy to reach for staff, the location is unsurpassed, and matched by the quality of space available.

The estate continues to set the level which all other estates try to reach. 

This latest deal was swiftly concluded with a new occupier to the area IPSol Energy and we wish them well with their expansion.”

Howard Meaney of Liverpool Victoria commented:

“We are pleased to have full occupation on the estate and to welcome our new tenant’s IPSol Energy, to Easter Park.”

Managing Director of IPSol Energy, Peter Khoury, commented:

“It was instrumental for IPSol Energy to locate a facility which depicted its intention to establish a world class Centre of Excellence for its Solar Photovoltaic business.  Tim Gilbertson took the time to fully understand our pressing requirements and delivered a space worthy of our ambitions.”

It is hoped that this deal of such high quality space heralds an improvement in the market and if you have a property to rent or sell or indeed are looking for new space please contact FHP on 0115 9507577.

Tim , we really welcome your efforts and your efficient manner in dealing proactively for us with lettings for this estate. Likewise being kept informed is also much appreciated. I hope our successful relationship can continue.

Nottingham based Churchill Specialist Contracting have just purchased through Tim Gilbertson at FHP a high quality industrial unit with yard at The Midway, just off Lenton Lane in Nottingham.

The deal agreed will see Churchill move from their current base in Ruddington as they continue their expansion through relocation. 

The unit was marketed and sold by Tim Gilbertson, Partner of FHP on behalf of pension fund clients and Churchill will benefit from one of the best locations the City has to offer for their new base. 

Tim Gilbertson commented:

“Despite the difficult market conditions it was always clear in my mind that this unit would generate good interest.  It had been presented in superb order, had the benefit of car parking to the front and had the key additional benefit of a secure yard adjoining.

More and more these days parties are keen to acquire space which benefits from secure external yards for storage, vehicle parking etc and as a result this building was always likely to be well received. 

I am pleased to say that after a very swift negotiation a deal was quickly agreed to enable Churchill to continue with their expansion plans including the establishment of the UK’s first independent training centre for both steeplejack & lightning protection engineers.

It is always pleasing to report positive stories regarding a company’s expansion, especially when they remain close to their Nottingham roots and this is certainly the case here.  We wish Wayne Murry and his team at Churchill continued success in their new home.”

Managing Director of Churchill Specialist Contracting, Wayne Murry, commented:

“To find premises of this quality and also keep the business established here in Nottingham is exactly the result we were seeking when we first approached FHP Property consultants.  A big thank you to Tim Gilbertson and his team at FHP for their assistance with the purchase and in so doing providing a Nottingham based employer the opportunity to continue the growth of their business to the benefit of others in the city.”

The supply of units continues to be good and demand is hopefully starting to rise.  We are as ever though keen to put forward, without commitment or cost, initial marketing thoughts on any property which owners may be looking to sell or let, and to do so please contact Tim Gilbertson at FHP on 0115 9507577.

Clowes Developments (UK) Limited have confirmed that the latest occupier to commit to their 200 acre East Midlands Distribution Centre, Castle Donington is the Roof Specialists Klober UK Limited.

Klober will take occupation of Unit 6f, a 40,000ft² distribution unit, in March 2011, relocating from their existing premises at Shepshed at Junction 23 of the M1.

David Arendell, UK Managing Director for Klober, confirmed:-

“Our existing premises at Junction 23 are somewhat dated and their age, height and accessibility were restricting the efficiency of our business.  We chose EMDC as it provides a new distribution warehouse with clear span space internally, separate car parking and loading space in a highly accessible location.  Its proximity to the M1, A50 and A42 enable us to be able to distribute throughout the UK and retain our existing workforce who will relocate from our Shepshed premises”.

EMDC has had a remarkable year over the past 12 months attracting Birlea Furniture who have taken occupation of their unit of some 36,000ft², but most impressively it is to be the home of Marks and Spencer plc who are leasing a new state of the art 1,000,000ft² distribution unit which is due to be handed over at the end of 2011.

Paul Shanley, Director of CWC, confirmed:-

“Our Group purchased EMDC at the beginning of 2009 at the height of the financial crisis – this was a strategic and conscious move by the Group to purchase a site of huge strategic regional importance.

The Group’s policy is to purchase sites in prime locations and the quality of the location has been demonstrated by the fact that we have managed to continue to let both regional and national scale distribution units on the site during these challenging times.

John Proctor of FHP, who acted on behalf of Clowes Developments, confirmed:-

“Whilst 2010 has continued to be an extremely challenging time for most associated with the property market there have been brighter spots and areas where we have seen continued demand.  EMDC is a quality Distribution Park, well served by road, rail, air and public transport infrastructure.  This has enabled EMDC to continue to attract demand with Klober, Birlea and M & S all committing to the Park over the course of the year”.

It is understood that the Developers are now seeking to master plan the remainder of the site with their being some 150 acres still ready for immediate development, capable of accommodating unit sizes from 40,000ft² up to 450,000ft² in size.

Savills Birmingham acted jointly with FHP on the letting with BNP Paribas Birmingham acting on behalf of Klober.

Tim Gilbertson, Partner of FHP is delighted to confirm that he has been appointed as joint agent along with the Nottingham office of Innes England to market Abbeyfield Estate’s prime trade counter scheme Abbey Trade Park at Mansfield.

Offering brand new accommodation this site offers a terrific opportunity for any trade counter operator to benefit from high quality space with extensive parking and delivery yard access. 

Perhaps key though in attracting occupiers to the remaining units is the presence of Screwfix Direct who trade exceptionally well from this location.  Also, we have the likelihood of a further household name occupier being added to the scheme in the next few weeks which will again increase the prominence and attractiveness of the site. 

Assuming that deal progresses then we have three units, available individually or combined, from as little as 308m² (3,310ft²) to 1,031m² (11,098ft²).

Tim Gilbertson commented:

“I was delighted to be appointed by Abbeyfield Estates as we have worked on their behalf before and will now work in conjunction with Chris Sinclair and Scott Osborne of Innes England to ensure that we quickly let the final couple of units in this scheme.

The main occupier on this scheme is Screwfix Direct who are, to coin a phrase, ‘trading their socks off’ and I cannot believe that local occupiers would not wish to benefit from the footfall and prominence their presence has created on the site and quickly take occupation of the remaining units. 

We also hope to be able to unveil in the next couple of weeks a further household name occupier for one of the other units and that will leave us with merely three units left available in the scheme.

Easily accessible from the centre of Mansfield, the A38, Sutton-in-Ashfield or Kirkby-in-Ashfield, the site sits prominently on Hermitage Way and should be a ‘must see’ destination for any trade counter operator on either a national or local scale.”

For further information on the scheme or to discuss or arrange a viewing please contact either Tim Gilbertson at FHP on 0115 9507577 or Chris Sinclair/Scott Osborne at Innes England on 0115 9243243.

Acting on behalf of Rushcliffe Estates, FHP are pleased to announce the recent letting of Unit 2C Trent Park Industrial Estate in Nottingham.  The property comprises an open span steel portal frame industrial unit extending to 2,470 sq ft in an established commercial location off Daleside Road.  The unit has recently been refurbished to a good standard and benefits from a good sized yard and parking area to the front.

The property has been taken by Trentside Textiles Limited, a local textiles company who specialise in the design and manufacture of curtains and soft furnishings who have been established in Nottingham for many years.

Jon Higham of Rushcliffe Estates commented:

“We are delighted to welcome Trentside Textiles Ltd to Trent Park and to have secured such an early letting of this unit.  We are confident that our one remaining unit, which has recently returned to the market, will also be occupied very soon. “

Mark Tomlinson, surveyor at FHP added:

“We have always received good demand for this property as it is a good size for the local market.  The refurbishment of the unit was an important factor in getting the premises let given the budget sensitivity of many small businesses at this time.  Trentside Textiles were able to be in and up and running with relatively low set up costs as a result.”

For further information on this letting or for details of the other unit available on the estate please contact Mark Tomlinson on 0115 841 1134.

On behalf of private clients, Tim Gilbertson of FHP has secured the letting of substantial warehouse space on The Midway, which runs parallel to Lenton Lane, Nottingham’s favoured industrial destination, to Chinook Sciences. 

The deal concluded sees Chinook take warehouse accommodation to complement their recently occupied office accommodation at Nottingham Science Park.

The deal was brokered by Tim Gilbertson at FHP and Jonathon Seddon at NG Chartered Surveyors and sees Chinook move into a top quality refurbished building in a prime position just off Nottingham’s Ring Road.

Tim Gilbertson commented:

“I have let this building a few times before and it has always been well received in the market.  Primarily, it benefits from an excellent location being set just off Nottingham’s Ring Road but more pertinently it has good car parking and yard facilities and our clients sensibly always present it in the best possible order. 

Their faith in the building and willingness to spend money on the presentation has again yielded favourable results with the swift letting to Chinook Sciences.  We wish the new occupiers well in their new base.”

Jonathon Seddon, Partner of NG Chartered Surveyors, acted on behalf of the ingoing tenant and commented:

“Following on from our having secured flagship offices on Nottingham Science Park for Chinook late last year, renting the premises on the Midway was the final piece of the puzzle for my client.  The rapid growth of the Company meant they needed larger premises to house additional testing equipment in connection with their energy recovery business.”

With substantial good quality space being taken up in the New Year, it is hoped that the property market is starting to come back to life and whilst confidence remains fragile deals are certainly still being done and stock levels are starting to dwindle.