FHP Property Consultants are delighted to announce the letting of 14 Regent Street in the Professional Quarter of Nottingham City Centre to Wallwood Independent, a firm of independent financial advisors.

The building provides a 3,000 sq ft Grade II listed period office building with accommodation over 5 floors which was recently refurbished to a high standard and marks the twelfth transaction completed by FHP in as many months in Nottinghams professional quarter which shows a promising appetite for offices in this location. 

Mark Tomlinson, Surveyor at FHP Property Consultants commented:-

“This area has for many years been regarded as a prestigious location for office occupiers but in recent years we have seen an increase in the number of buildings coming onto the market, with many companies opting for business park premises on the edge of the city and the ‘Grade A’ office specifications they provide.”

“On the whole, the buildings in this location cannot provide quite that specification but given the correct refurbishment these buildings provide a quality working environment among many amenities such as Browns Brassiere, Harts Hotel, Cast Café and The Playhouse Theatre as well as being only a five minute walk from Nottingham’s retail centre.”

“We have seen a correction in rental values in the professional quarter which is making premises affordable to companies who perhaps only dreamed of offices in this area.”

For details of offices available in this area please contact Mark Tomlinson.

FHP have been instructed to bring to the market a ground floor self contained office suite in Visual Packaging’s Nottingham headquarters at Easter Park in Lenton Lane, Nottingham. 

The, principally open plan suite provides good quality self contained offices in close proximity to the QMC, Nottingham University and with good access to the A52 Ring Road. 

Details can be downloaded from www.fhp.co.uk with information available from either James Hartley or Mark Tomlinson at FHP’s Nottingham Office.

FHP have completed a very speedy letting of 7,600ft² at 30-34 Hounds Gate to Speedy Cash®.  This letting means that there is now only one suite left in the building measuring 3,700ft².  However there is expected to be a further 7,600ft² of space becoming available on the first floor in the building when Brown Jacobson move into their head offices later in the year. 

James Hartley of FHP property consultants commented: 

“Hounds Gate is an ideal location for any business to occupy as not only it is so close to all the City Centre amenities, it also offers high quality of space at affordable rents that include parking. 

The landlord, Catalyst, carried out a full refurbishment of the space that finished in late August and it is testament to the quality of this work that we had a deal completed before March.  This deal means that Speedy Cash® are picking up exceptionally high quality space at an affordable price.  This is a trend we are seeing in the market at the moment with the higher quality refurbished space being taken on and gaining much better interest than that of its direct competition that has not had refurbishment work carried out. 

Sarah Cooper of Catalyst, the landlord further commented: 

It took some convincing to carry out the refurbishment works in a tough market and without any guaranteed interest.  It was a bit of a leap of faith if I am being honest but it has definitely reaped its rewards in this instance.  We are pleased to welcome Speedy Cash® to our building and looking at their business plan we are confident that we are attracting a high calibre of tenant who is on the up and expanding its operations in the UK.

Not every family has a country estate with a mansion dating back to the 12th century and 15,000 acres, but at Welbeck Abbey, huge thought and resources have gone into creating a sustainable estate fit for the 21st century.

William Parente, a former film producer, and his wife, Alison, have taken on the challenges of maintaining Welbeck Abbey, traditionally the home of the Dukes of Portland, on the death of Parente’s aunt, Lady Anne Cavendish-Bentinck.  The philosophy for the future of the estate is built on four “pillars”.

Gradually, a new sustainable community is emerging, restoring many of the estate buildings put up by the fifth duke who, over 20 years, had a passion for construction.  Until 2005, Welbeck Abbey was home to the Army’s Sixth Form College but they moved out allowing the Parente family to reoccupy the abbey.

The last Duke of Portland built a smaller home in the grounds – Welbeck Woodhouse – where Lady Anne lived until her death in 2008, aged 92.  Sometime before, the family had established what it calls the Four Pillars, the guiding principles and philosophy for the future of Welbeck Abbey.

Unlike National Trust properties or the Duke of Devonshire at Chatsworth, Welbeck is not out to attract tourists to the house.  It wants to bring people to the estate to share a philosophy and sense of purpose.

Rob Mayo, a Chartered Surveyor with a degree in the history of art, was recruited as development director to take some of the projects forward.

Rob commented:-

“I was given quite a lengthy brief which, in a nutshell, was to bring the Welbeck project into being.  It is about creating a sustainable community based on the four pillars: creative business, the arts, rural diversification and education.  It is about trying to find new uses for our buildings, but not just any old use, and particularly focused on creative business and education.  Rural diversification gives a fair amount of flexibility – businesses related to food, food production, artisan foods.”

Today, it includes a school to learn how to make and bake traditional breads. There is a cheese-making school and, more recently, a brewery. A butchery course teaches how to butcher beef, pork and lamb and a new school could be set up soon to teach how to cure meat.  While Mrs Parente is particularly interested in traditional artisan foods, her husband is passionate about the arts and creative businesses.  He once wrote an arts column for the Scotsman.

Mr Mayo was involved in the £15 million restoration of Piece Hall, in Halifax, where he was project manager. His responsibility now is finding new uses for and converting historic buildings on the estate with up to 175,000 sq ft, one of the so-called Welbeck Pillars.  They are made up of hen houses, courtyard buildings, ancillary building and lodges on the estate.

Carriage Court has become 9,200 sq ft of very comfortable serviced office space divided up into small units of 162 sq ft upwards to 2,200 sq ft.  The high standard of work was carried out with flair by Susan Amaku, of Woodhall Planning and Conservation, in Leeds, architects and conservation specialists.  Prices start at £12 a sq ft with service charges on top.

The Lower Motor Yard has been skillfully converted into the School of Artisan Food.  Cavendish House was built as the science laboratories for the school in the 1960s. The restoration is again a high standard, attractive and with style.  The fourth floor contains the offices for managing the Welbeck Estate and the ground floor contains five serviced offices totalling 2,200 sq ft available to let.

Nearby is a 800 kilowatt biomass boiler for heating Welbeck Abbey and part of the estate, thought to be the largest in private hands in the country.  The £1 million installation burns 25 tonnes of wood chip a week, all coming from the estate.  Welbeck Estate has taken a different route from other country houses, it is about attracting visitors a gem of an estate, to sense the history of generations of the Portland and Cavendish- Bentinck family.

The Parentes want people to share in a common vision coming to Welbeck; to learn to make artisan bread, become cheese-makers, attend courses on curing meats, butchering meat and making sausages.  It is a very different kind of “tourism” which is about buying into and sharing an ethos.

“Visitors come to the estate with the settled purpose of doing something, to do a workshop, to have lunch or go to the farm shop.” 

“One thing it is not is a rural business park. While business is an important part of what goes on here, it is only one aspect. The bigger picture is more than that, it is about being a sustainable community.  We have our own food, water supply and sewerage system. Welbeck is quite self contained.”

Welbeck Abbey Brewery is managed by brewer Claire Monk, a microbiologist, in Lower Motor Yard.  A joint venture between Welbeck Estates and Kelham Island Brewery, it is already supplying 70 pubs with cask and bottled beers such as Portland Black, Cavendish and Red Feather.  The adjoining units will be converted for use by food producers in a renamed Brewery Yard. There are still several architecturally important listed buildings on the estate looking for a purpose. 

A very posh hen house, a palace for chickens with its own grassed courtyard guarded by railings to keep our marauding foxes, awaits inspiration. One idea is that it could become a crèche, assuming there are enough young families nearby.

That may be some way away because the priority is creating commercial accommodation which will pay its way, about 20,000 sq feet has been created or restored so far, and there is no defined timescale for the restoration of the remaining accommodation, more than 150,000sq ft. 

A Harley endowment supports the gallery and workshops,  the gallery offers a glimpse of the very private world of Welbeck, its pictures and the tastes of the occupiers, who continue to buy art.

For Laura West, letting properties on a ducal estate is a break from the norm.  Listed buildings that have a history are unusual in her book, but as a chartered surveyor, she has found the project totally absorbing.

Laura West of FHP Property Consultants commented:-

“I just love the whole estate, it is a magical location allows time for reflection.   I think businesses are attracted to the location, the address and the prospect of buying into the estate’s Four Pillar philosophy.  You are buying into the address, the lifestyle and the facilities that come with it such as the Welbeck Sailing Club.

Facilities include potential membership of the sailing club. Members sail their dinghies on the Great Lake.  The investment in converting Carriage Court into offices is huge and to the highest sympathetic standard.  When I take people round, they are bowled over by the design and quality.”

“Although remote, it is only 15 minutes or so from the M1 and less from the A57.  High-speed internet connections have been introduced to the estate which is particularly attractive to creative businesses.”

When the distinguished architectural historian, Nicholas Pevsner,  wrote  his Buildings of England book on Notts in 1951, he gave little hope for the future of Welbeck Abbey in private hands.  The Duke had built a modern house for himself in the grounds, Welbeck Woodhouse.

Sir Nicholas wrote:-

“The  building history of Welbeck Abbey  in a mood sadly characteristic of the C20.”

The current Duke, he wrote, had moved to a house  “no larger than a wealthy suburban villa near am industrial town”. And he posed the question of what would happen to Welbeck when the army school left.

“Will a public use be found: Electricity Board Coal Board, Lunatic Asylum,  Convent, School. Sanitorium,  Museum. The question is one of importance  far beyond the individual case of Welbeck.”

The revision of the book by Elizabeth Williamson in 1979 omitted the last paragragh. Pevsner, were he alive today, would undoubtedly  be excited by  the current  Welbeck philosophy.

For further information or to arrange an appointment to view the offices at Carriage Court please contact Laura West on 07917 460029. 

FHP Property Consultants are delighted to announce the letting of Enfield House on Low Pavement in the heart of Nottingham City Centre to law firm Challinors Solicitors. Challinors has relocated from its previous base in Colwick to set up its new East Midlands headquarters in the city.

Sarah Pottle, head of Challinors in Nottingham and the East Midlands, said:-

“Enfield House is a perfect location for the firm’s 25 staff in Nottingham. Being based in the City Centre places our full range of legal services in one key location, which makes our team accessible to our corporate and private clients and fits with our marketing position as one of the largest general legal practices in the Midlands.”

Andy Hodges, Challinors’ Chief Executive commented:-

“The Nottingham City Centre location has been carefully selected to ensure Challinors corporate and private client’s legal specialists are accessible and at the heart of Nottingham’s thriving and bustling commercial centre. Enfield House is ideally located for both business and private clients and the central location, space and public transport links make it an attractive location for our team.”

Mark Tomlinson, Surveyor at FHP who agreed the letting on behalf of the landlord commented:-

“The property had undergone an extensive refurbishment programme at the same time as the redevelopment of the residential accommodation to the rear of the property. This property is located in one of Nottingham’s prime retail pitches and Challinors will undoubtedly benefit from this prominent position. This letting follows a number of City Centre office moves by professional firms and I am delighted that there are some positive stories in the market with firms looking to build in spite of ongoing market conditions.“

HIGH quality office space in an historic city centre landmark has been re-launched to the market by Nottingham property consultancy FHP.  Surveyor James Hartley is handling the marketing of four floors in The Pearl – the new name for Pearl House, the distinctive 1960s office block which stands tall over Nottingham’s Market Square.

The building space has been comprehensively refurbished by the building’s landlord, Development Securities, with each floor comprises around 3,700 sq ft of high-quality office space which blends professional appeal with a central location. James Hartley says the space should appeal to a wide variety of potential users, who would be moving into a building which has historically hosted tenants such as law firms, financial services organisations, and the regional operations of regulatory bodies and charitable organisations.

He commented: “Pearl House is a landmark for all sorts of reasons. It has become a part of the city’s landscape, has been home to an impressive number of high-profile businesses and a great contributor to the city’s economy over the years.  The 1960s isn’t remembered fondly for its buildings, but The Pearl is an exception. It was an architectural landmark when it was constructed and it remains appealing to this day. It was also a pretty visionary development – even though it was constructed more than 40 years ago, it continues to be a brilliant location for business. It is close to the city centre and all its facilities and only yards from Nottingham’s tram network.

“When you consider all the investment which is taking place in Nottingham, with the extension of the tram network, the development of a transport hub at the railway station, the enterprise zone and the widening of the A453, what you have here is a really well-placed location for business.”

Though The Pearl’s basic structure dates back to the 1960s it has been brought up to date by its current landlord, Development Securities, one of the UK’s leading property developers and investors.

James Hartley said: “This is a great example of astute, well-managed property investment in action, with a landlord who is doing everything right. Development Securities took the building on a couple of years ago when it was, perhaps, just beginning to lose some of its lustre. They have since engaged in a high-quality refurbishment exercise which has left the building looking fantastic. It now exudes exactly the kind of discreet quality that I believe professional occupiers are looking for.

“The refurbishment has seen the space completely refitted and its offers facilities and infrastructure which would suit established professional organisations and those who are perhaps looking to take the next step-up in terms of location but in an affordable manner.

“It is open plan space which allows people to interact, and investment in upgrading The Pearl’s reception area means visitors are given a high-quality experience form the moment they enter the building. Put simply, Development Securities have transformed a building which might have seemed sterile and institutionalised into something that is both inspiring and appealing. It is a model of wise investment.”

James Hartley says that Nottingham is suffering from a shortage of high-quality office space at the moment, with no new build coming on to the market in the immediate future and the amount of viable second hand stock dwindling. He concluded: “The Pearl has never lost its appeal as a business location, and with refurbished space I think it is in a very strong position to attract interest from occupiers looking for space which is ready to be occupied.”

Acting on behalf of a retained client FHP Property Consultants are delighted to announce the recent letting of 3 Prospect Place, Pride Park to Games Warehouse.  The two storey office premises extending to 4,321ft² has been let by way of a new ten year full repairing and insuring lease. 

Games Warehouse, an international company is the UK’s number one developer and manufacturer of play to play skill with prized products.  Games Warehouse is the leading multi game touch screen terminal range for pubs, bars and other locations and has also entered the category C and B3/B4 digital gaming centres with the stunning evolution terminal.  Evolution delivers a multiple choice, upgradeable games menu offering a variety of flexibility to both operators and players. 

Bernard Taylor, Director of Games Warehouse commented:

“We are extremely pleased to have moved into our new premises on Pride Park.  I would like to thank George and the team at FHP who have handled this deal professionally and expeditiously”

George Dunnicliff of FHP Property Consultants commented:

“It shows great signs for the City to secure the letting to Games Warehouse and see an international firm move into Derby.  I wish Bernard and his team at Games Warehouse the best of luck for the future in their new premises”

For further information on this letting or if you would like to speak with one of our office/industrial team please contact George Dunnicliff.

Pictured George Dunnicliff of FHP and Bernard Taylor of Games Warehouse.

Acting on behalf of Clowes Developments (UK) Limited, FHP Property Consultants are delighted to announce the recent letting to Derwent Water Systems at Key Point Office Village in Alfreton.

Derwent Water Systems have taken the offices, extending to 1,359ft² on a full repairing and insuring lease for a term of three years.

Derwent Water Services is a leading manufacturer and supplier of quality water treatment plant, ranging from basic water softeners and reverse osmosis equipment to customer specified complex water treatment solutions.

 Scott Harper of Clowes Developments (UK) Limited commented:-

“We are extremely pleased to secure a further letting at Key Point. This is good news for the estate and Derwent Water Systems will be an excellent new addition”

George Dunnicliff of FHP Property Consultants commented:-

“This is the second letting we have achieved in the last week on this estate further to the letting to Images Publishing Limited which is an excellent result for this office scheme. We are very pleased to get these lettings over the line and look forward to onward success.  We wish both Derwent Water and Images Publishing the very best of luck for the future.”

For further information on this letting or to discuss opportunities on this estate please contact George Dunnicliff in our office/industrial team.

Pictured left to right:  George Dunnicliff (FHP Property Consultants), Richard Thorneycroft (Derwent Water), Scott Harper (Clowes Developments).

THE ENGINEERING and environmental consultancy BWB has made Nottingham its flagship presence in the East Midlands with a move into a prestige office complex in the Southside professional quarter.

The firm, which has been a key player in the construction of a series of commercial landmarks, has taken the fifth floor at Waterfront House, the Grade A office complex which forms part of Waterfront Plaza, the mixed use scheme built by the Northern Ireland developer McAleer & Rushe. They leased the 8,650 sq ft suite in a deal secured for them by John Proctor, of the Nottingham property consultancy FHP, and James Hall, of Geo Hallam & Sons, who acted for the landlord, law firm Shoosmiths.

BWB has been in business 21 years and is now the largest privately-owned integrated engineering and environmental consultancy in the East Midlands. It has a 90-strong team working at Waterfront Plaza, one of a network of offices which also takes in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds. In total, the £10.5m-turnover business employs 140 people. They deliver a range of integrated engineering services centred around the built environment, transportation and infrastructure, and environmental sectors.

Steve Wooler, the Managing Director of BWB Consulting, said: “The past few years have been a period of great change for the industry, but BWB Consulting has come out of it in a strong position and ready to expand. We went through a management buy-out in 2008, we have completed a successful refinancing, and the move from our old home in the Lace Market into a state-of-the-art environment in Nottingham’s emerging professional district makes a bold statement about our ambitions.

“We have a talented team which understands the complexities of development all the way from drawing board to handover, and we have invested in a professional environment which will help us to deliver what we believe is a large company capability with a small company service ethic.”

BWB Consulting has been a key partner in a series of landmark projects locally, regionally and nationally – among them a new training ground scheme for Premiership giants Manchester City. It was part of the team behind The Cornerhouse and Trinity Square in Nottingham, The Roundhouse in Derby, the School of Law & Business at De Montfort University, and the £150m Trinity Walk development in Wakefield.

“We are in a market where we compete with both national and international businesses and we have demonstrated over the years an approach which has earned BWB considerable respect,” said Mr Wooler. “But this is a challenging climate and no one can afford to rest on their laurels. We have got some exciting growth targets for the business both at home and abroad, but the one thing that won’t change is our commitment to delivering real value for our clients.”

He added: “Our move into Waterfront House is all about supporting our long-term ambitions. It offers us not only the right kind of office environment, but a location which puts us in the best position to make the most of the upcoming investment in Nottingham’s transport infrastructure. Nottingham City Council’s decision to move to Loxley House put some real momentum into the Southside as a professional quarter, and the expansion of the railway station and tram will make it easier for both staff and clients to take advantage of one of the most integrated transport systems in the country.”

BWB Consulting joins a raft of professional names in Waterfront House, including corporate law firm Shoosmiths, the expanding financial services business Ikano and the customer logistics division of Coca Cola Enterprises – the exclusive licensee for The Coca Cola Company’s beverages in Britain, parts of mainland Europe and Scandinavia.

FHP director John Proctor acted for BWB Consulting in the letting of the fifth floor at Waterfront House. He says the building provides an almost ideal location for a professional services business, with excellent facilities combining with a well-connected position.

John Proctor commented: “Southside is becoming established as Nottingham’s central business district, and the presence of major professional names like BWB in Waterfront House is a testament to its long-term logic as a commercial location. It is within walking distance of Nottingham city centre, alongside the railway station with its connections to London, and the expansion of the tram means that it will be directly linked to the ng2 Business Park and beyond within only a few years.

“BWB Consulting is a widely-respected name in the construction and development industry. Waterfront House provides it with the kind of high-quality, open-plan environment which fits in with its ambitions to expand. As the economy picks up, I would expect many more businesses to want to take advantage of this kind of location, which bodes well for Southside’s future.”

Waterfront House comprises 75,000 sq ft of Grade A office space ranged over nine floors. It is part of McAleer & Rushe’s wider Waterfront Plaza scheme, which also features the 14-storey, 264 bedroom Jurys Inn Hotel, and The Atrium, where 107 apartments are ranged around an open, water-fronted square.

BWB Consulting has leased the fifth floor in Waterfront House from corporate law firm Shoosmiths, which has its regional headquarters in the building. Shoosmiths’ Partner Deborah Gordon Brown said: “We were among the first businesses to move into Waterfront House and it has been the perfect platform for us to serve clients and support our own culture. I’m delighted to welcome BWB to the building and I know it will help them to achieve their ambitions.”

Shoosmiths was advised in the deal by James Hall, of the Nottingham property agency Geo Hallam & Sons. He commented: “Besides the infrastructure investments in the tram and the railway station, a number of new commercial and leisure developments are planned for the Southside area. They reflect the fact that it is one of the best-placed business locations in Nottingham, and this was a key factor in BWB Consulting’s decision to locate here.”

FHP and Innes England have acted jointly in the sale of two more units on Poplars Court in Nottingham, driving the occupancy up to 75%. 

Driver Hire Ltd and The Nottingham Journal are the latest occupiers within the popular development. Commercial property agents Innes England and FHP acted jointly for the landlord Sladen Estates in the deals, which will see the companies take up a total of 3,200 sq ft in Units 1 and 15. 

Matt Sladen, from Sladen Estates, said:

“We would like to welcome The Nottingham Journal and Driver Hire Ltd to Poplars Court. The companies join an already impressive list of businesses which extends to IT consultants, graphic designers, accountants and mechanical & engineering consultants.

What’s been particularly alluring to these types of firms is the appeal of moving to high quality premises where they are able to have a say in the design of a bespoke layout to meet their requirements. This is managed and delivered by ourselves, and takes away one of the most time consuming aspects of any office move.”

FHP and Innes England have already disposed of nine other units at the popular location, and these two latest lettings mean that 75% of the offices are now occupied. Poplars Court is a strong indicator that there is still strong demand for well located, accessible and high specification offices in the city. 

The units at Poplars Court vary in size and offer a diverse range of companies the opportunity of having their own front doors and dedicated car parking. Businesses have also been attracted to the location, as it is within minutes of the city centre and the national road network and now that phase two of the NET has been confirmed, this is also an added bonus as it will stop closely to Poplars Court, furthering enhancing the transport links available to tenants. 

John Chambers of Driver Hire Ltd says: 

“Although Driver Hire Nottingham is a well established recruitment business within Nottingham, we have for some time been looking for suitable offices to allow us to create a much higher profile within the city. Poplars Court not only gives us a great visible location but also offers a high quality working environment for the staff along with great floor space for our Driver CPC training arm of the business.” 

James Hartley of FHP said: 

“With a lack of supply of freehold offices we have found a good level of demand in Poplars Court and this has been reflected in these two sales. The high quality fit out of the units combined with the developer’s ability to design and construct the bespoke layouts has proved extremely appealing. This coupled with the impending tram passing the site has meant that the small office scheme has attracted a number of owner occupiers to it.” 

For further information on offices at Poplars Court please liaise with James Hartley at FHP on 0115 8411148 or joint agents Scott Osborne at Innes England 0115 924 3243 or.

An upmarket office development located at Junction 28 of the M1 in Derbyshire which has the heart of the UK economy on its doorstep is being marketed jointly by East Midlands property consultancy FHP and Innes England.

The Courtyard, which now has seven units available, has been hailed as one of the best-placed professional locations in the Midlands, sitting on a junction where the key east-west and north-south road networks meet. Its modern, two-storey buildings have swift, easy access to the A38, M1 and A1, putting the three major cities of the East Midlands and the vast markets of the wider Midlands and South Yorkshire within easy reach. The site has extensive parking, CCTV security and a landscaped environment which the agents believe provides a professional environment suited to both national and regional businesses.

The Village site is already home to a mix of local and international enterprises and organisations, with Tarmac, Rowan Structures, and PPG Coatings alongside the Pub People Pub Company,  the staff absence insurance business Schools Advisory Services and the training and recruitment firm Positive Outcomes.

Very competitive deals are available on the units, which can be combined or occupied separately and have been finished to a high specification. They range in size from 1,406 sq ft to 2,438 sq ft and achieve high energy efficiency ratings

Laura West, who is marketing the units for FHP, said:-

“The Courtyard is going to suit a range of occupiers whether it is national companies looking for a regional base serving clients across the Midlands and the North, or local professional businesses who need a high-quality environment in a strategic location.

“In terms of location, I think you would struggle to find a development which is as well-connected as this. You are right on the A38, which offers east-west connections linking to either the A1 via the MARR route or across the heart of the Midlands market through Derby.

“On top of that, it is less than a mile from Junction 28 of the M1, which has just been widened to provide fast, easy access to markets in the south and the north. So as far as transport is concerned you have got every box ticked – it’s even within half-an-hour’s drive of East Midlands Airport.

“So there is a truly vast market within easy reach of The Courtyard, and it has got good facilities close by with both a pub restaurant and the Principal Hayley Derbyshire Hotel”.

Innes England director Craig Straw added:-

“It is a great location, but it is also a thoroughly professional environment which sends all the right signals about an occupier’s approach to business.

“This well-designed development should have a wide appeal to occupiers looking for a high-quality environment. This is reflected in both the finish of the units, which is both contemporary and practical, and in a gated, secure environment which is manned 24 hours.”

The area around Junction 28 has become an increasingly popular site for strategic investment because of the markets it puts within easy reach. Supermarket giant Co-operative Group is currently building a major distribution warehouse on the other side of the A38, while The Courtyard is also opposite the East Midlands Designer Outlet – a major regional retail destination.

The road network on the M1 has recently been the subject of major Government investment that has seen it widened to four lanes, improving traffic flows and helping to reduce delays.

Laura West concluded:-

“I think that when potential occupiers talk to us about terms they will quickly realise that The Courtyard represents a location which offers remarkable value – not just in terms of occupation costs, but in terms of the position it puts you in relative to a vast potential market.”

FHP Property Consultants are delighted to announce that they have secured the sale of 96 Friar Lane in Nottingham City Centre. 

James Hartley of FHP commented:

“I am delighted to have completed the sale of this office in such a quick fashion.  The sale has led to the expansion of a local occupier which is great news and the type of news we all want to hear in the current market.

The sale leaves us with the next door unit, 94 Friar Lane, which is a small freehold totalling 1,087ft² and is a great opportunity for another small business to or a City Centre office or retail unit.”

FHP Property Consultants are delighted to announce that they have successfully completed the letting of the ground floor suite within Birkbeck House on Phoenix Office Park to Sterling Home Care.

Sterling Home Care will take on a 5 year lease of the 2,280ft² suite and will take up occupation within four weeks of first viewing the property.  This is the third letting in as many months on Phoenix Park for FHP where they have disposed of over 14,000ft² of offices since September 2011.

James Hartley of FHP commented:

“We have seen extremely strong levels of interest in Phoenix Office Park over the last few months and this has lead to me disposing of over 14,000ft² of space since September 2011.  The lettings have not been easy and have required a very proactive approach from both ourselves and the landlords. 

We have worked exceptionally quickly to secure this letting which has allowed the tenants to gain a quick occupation.

In all three of the lettings that we have achieved adhering to short timescales was the key to obtaining a tenant.

The Birkbeck House letting is particularly pleasing given that we have been working for a charity and it is an investment that they hold so to improve its performance like this is fantastic news.”

Frank Ellis of the landlord commented:

“Our thanks go out to FHP for obtaining this tenant. They have been fantastic in dealing with this property. Not only have they let it for us but they also carry out the management on a day to day basis which means we are able to worry about the day to day running of our charity whilst FHP handle the property.

For a charity to invest its funds in a property like this could be seen as a risk but with the help and proactive management and letting advice offered by FHP it is currently proving a sound investment.”

Wincent Kordula of Sterling Home Care, the new tenant, further commented:

“Once we decided to move to the Park our only issue was timing as we had to move very quickly. FHP and the landlord were very proactive and worked alongside us in order to ensure that we were able to move in as quickly as possible. Not only is the quality of the space within the offices of a high quality but the location gives us great access not only to Nottingham City Centre but also to the motorway as well as the NET tram line.”

FHP Property Consultants are delighted to confirm that they have now completed the sale of Unit 15, Poplars Court to the Nottingham Journal.

Nottingham Journal moved into their new premises in January.  The sale of Unit 15 was exchanged a couple of months ago however to fit in with the timescales and fit out for Nottingham Journal the exchange was delayed.  The developers, Sladen Estates carried out the fit out of the individual meeting rooms within the space as part of the sale price and this enabled Nottingham Journal to take occupation and operate on day one of completion of the lease.

This is a service which has been offered at Poplars Court and given the small level of occupiers involved has been incredibly successful in attracting purchasers.  The work is done under warranty, ready on completion and has proved to be a popular addition to the sales package on site.

James Hartley of FHP commented:

“I am pleased to see this sale go through.  The quality of office space on offer at Poplars Court is extremely high and does seem to appeal to owner occupiers.  The starting specification of this suite is excellent and with the design and fit out service offered by the developers the finished product really does offer exceptional value for money.  We expect to see a few more deals completed in the near future.” 

Property consultants FHP are delighted to announce that they have completed the letting of 2.1 Clarendon Business Park to ILS English. 

ILS English are one the region’s leading providers of year round English courses and they work with individual companies and educational organisations from all over the world from their base on Clarendon Business Park.  The move has allowed for a consolidation and expansion of their space within Clarendon Business Park where they now occupy three buildings.

This letting means that the self contained office on Clarendon Business Park has been let within 10 months of coming to the market.

James Hartley of FHP commented:

“ILS English were one of the first companies we approached to take on this space given that they are already on the Park.  We always like to approach local occupiers when we first bring a property to the market and this strategy has proved successful in this instance.  It is great news to see a local firm with a global reputation taking more space and expanding and I hope that the move into 2.1 Clarendon Business Park is a success one for them.”

FHP Property Consultants are delighted to confirm that they have completed the letting of 1 Phoenix Place to Vinci Construction.

Vinci have taken on the whole of 1 Phoenix Place which totals 9,845ft².  The office will be a home for their special products team which will allow them to carry out the construction work on the tram lines.

The offices appealed to Vinci due to their close proximity to the Motorway allowing their team easy access to the office from other nationwide offices as well as the properties proximity to the tram line and its great access to Nottingham City Centre. 

James Hartley of FHP commented:

“I am delighted to have completed this letting to Vinci Construction.  There was no doubt once they viewed the property that they loved the location being so close to Junction 26 of the M1 Motorway and also Phoenix Office Park & Ride tram meant that it was the ideal spot for them.  Both Vinci, ourselves and the landlord had to work together very closely in order to complete the letting within a timescale that allowed them to move in before Christmas but I think that the team effort has paid off.”

A new joint venture set up by STAINTON, together with a group of Kuwaiti Investors advised by WW Advisors, has acquired Chapel Quarter Nottingham from Royal London Asset Management’s Scottish Life Fund for £20m representing a yield of 8.75%.

Chapel Quarter is a 145,000 sqft prime mixed-use island scheme in CBD Nottingham comprising four floors of offices, six prime retail units and a 120 bed Holiday Inn Express hotel.

The property is 91% let to nine tenants including Thomson Reuters, Barclays and Global Radio with an average lease length remaining of 14 years.

The prime retail units include restaurants ASK, CHINA CHINA, FAT CAT CAFÉ, LAS IGUANAS & MAN’S

James Longden, Chief Investment Officer, Stainton Group commented:

“We spent many months working with the vendor Royal London Asset Management to ensure the successful completion.  We are very pleased to have made this investment in the Nottingham market and we strongly believe in the fundamentals that Nottingham has to offer as a location.

“We look forward to working with the local, national and international tenants in improving and consolidating Chapel Quarter’s position and image in the centre of Nottingham.”

David Swan, Managing Director, WW Advisors commented:

“We are delighted to add Chapel Quarter to the rapidly growing list of properties we have advised as we build our client’s portfolio. Our strategy has seen the recent acquisition of three quality assets, each of which will deliver a good return, require low capital expenditure, and with active asset management, we believe will perform very well.

“We continue to seek more opportunities, both on and off market, where we can secure assets that fit our model and work with local partners to add value for our client.”

STAINTON, as well as being an equity partner has also been appointed Asset Manager to the new joint venture.

The owners are planning a refurbishment of the reception area and exterior of the building to improve the overall image of the building.

The recently purchased investment also offers the chance of an immediate increase in income as there is 12,975 sqft of vacant space available within the mix used scheme.

James Hartley of letting agent FHP commented on the space “It is a fantastic space and really stands out within the city. It is such a prominent position and the available specification within the building is high – no matter what the use be it retail, leisure or office, we can accommodate a requirement in the space as it can be easily and quickly altered to suit an occupiers needs.”

There are three areas available for letting:

• On the first floor, a vacant office comprising 5,238 sqft, this unit can be connected with B alongside, or C below via a private internal staircase, to create either a 10,943 sqft unit or a larger 12,943 sqft unit on two floors  – with private street entrance
• Adjacent to A above, a shell expansion space of 2,000 sqft – which can connect to either A above, or C below
• On the ground floor a 5,705 sqft unit (currently behind boarding) that has extensive street frontage onto Maid Marian Way and can offer either an office space with its own front door, a restaurant or retail unit – which can extend into units A and B above as well

There are various options of combining the spaces AB / AC / ABC / BC via an internal staircase, thus offering very adaptable and flexible layout options

Local agents FHP are being appointed as lead letting agents

Local firm Paragon Interiors are being appointed as contractors for the refurbishment programme

Debt finance was provided by Deutsche Postbank AG

The joint venture was advised by Pardoe Properties and CBRE

FHP are delighted to announce the letting of Unit K at The Steps on Plumptre Square in The Lace Market to NEST. The scheme offers a mixture of office and retail units located close to the Capital FM arena, perfect for small and medium sized businesses looking to benefit from the prominence that the location offers.

NEST, a residential management company are looking to benefit from the main road location and the quality working environment that has been created.

Mark Tomlinson, surveyor at FHP commented:-

“I am delighted that we achieved this letting, NEST already look well settled and their quality fit out really breathes new life into the scheme.  I am sure that other businesses will follow their lead and look to capitalise on the prominence of the location and the competitive rental terms on offer”

Mark Tomlinson added:-

“We are close to achieving a sale of the whole development and the new investors plan an extensive refurbishment programme to enhance the space on offer.  The benefits of well presented accommodation with its own front door should be plain to see in the coming months.”

FHP are delighted to announce that they have completed a letting on further space to Chinook, at its European headquarters at No. 1, Nottingham Science Park.  As a result Chinook are looking to start taking on more skilled engineers.

Chinook Science moved into the building a year ago and has now agreed to take an additional 5,000 sq ft of office space on top of the 15,000 sq ft it already occupies. This means that there is now only 2,700 sq ft of office space within the 40,000 sq ft building and the design and build site left.  

James Hartley of FHP commented:

“This further letting is testament to the quality of the office space at No.1, Nottingham Science Park the No.1 development has been a hugely success development in recent years attracting an exceptionally high calibre of tenants.  The main area we are looking at on the park is the 6 acres design and build land that we have available.”

Chinook commented:

“The expansion has come after an increase in demand for industrial renewable energy technology RODECS. It is thought to be the world’s only industrial gasification system which universally develops waste material without any type of pre-processing.

Harry Perry, Chinook Sciences, Technical Director, commented:

“It is an easy decision to invest at the Science Park with the pool of talent available in the region, and combined with the quality of the current workforce, we will be able to grow and fully support Chinook’s wide ranging activity in the waste to energy field.”

Shields & Company are the latest firm to take advantage of the quality office space available at Quantum House on College Street in the Professional Quarter of Nottingham City Centre. The property is located a short walk from the Nottingham Playhouse and Cast Cafe and Bar and offers a range of offices suitable for both new businesses through to  more established local companies, such as Shields & Company.

Mark Tomlinson of FHP, who act on behalf of Quantum House commented:-

“This is the third letting we have completed at Quantum House since the refurbishment was completed. The offices were launched in early October and we are not surprised to see good demand for these quality offices in this location.”

Charles Fish, of Quantum House commented:-

“We are delighted with the initial positive response to our serviced offices at Quantum House which include in-house receptionist, boardroom and secretarial facilities.”

Joint agents are FHP and Innes England.

For further information on the availability within this building please contact Mark Tomlinson on 07917 576254 or email mark@fhp.co.uk

Property consultants FHP are delighted to announce that they have completed a further letting within The Atrium to Road to Health.  This is a company that provides an online system to calculate how healthy individuals are and offers simple steps to achieve personal health goals.  The company also provides this facility to national and international insurance companies and works alongside individuals to make them healthier and potentially reduce their insurance liabilities.

This letting means that there is currently only 3,000ft² of space available within the Atrium and within the last 12 months alone there has been circa 15,000ft² of lettings done over five separate deals.

James Hartley of FHP commented:

“Road to Health approached FHP in early 2011 looking for a new head office for their high tech organisation.  They spent some time viewing a number of different options both in and out of town and they decided that given the high quality specification of the offices and generous and impressive communal areas within The Atrium that this was the right space for them.  Moving from Bio-City enabled them to accommodate their ambitious expansion plans but also offers them the opportunity to have high quality offices which will improve their client relations and attract a greater workforce.

Colin Graham of LMP City Lets, who manage the property on behalf of the landlords, Cubic, commented:

“Space is really filling up at The Atrium at the moment and our sole agents FHP are doing a fantastic job and getting the space let.  If you had told me in 2010 that we would only have 3,000ft² available in the building then I would have been very surprised.  FHP have been incredibly flexible and have brought some interesting new ideas to our marketing and this appears to be paying off.  We are confident the remaining space will be let soon as we have interest in it and we look forward to working alongside FHP on other projects that we have on the market.”

FHP have completed their latest letting on Wheatcroft Business Park of Unit 1, a 4,500ft² self contained office to a financial services company specialising in financial management, insurance, mortgage and debt advice.  

This letting means that the Business Park which totals 65,500ft² is now up to a total occupancy. 

James Hartley of FHP Property Consultants commented:

“This letting is fantastic news.  Firstly to complete another letting is very satisfying but even more than that to have effectively filled this office park gives me and the whole team at FHP great satisfaction.  When we were originally brought on board to market Wheatcroft Business Park in January 2009, there was 35,000ft² of vacant space within the park, now we are able to announce that the park is full. 

The success at this Park has not come easy however and with the landlord we have had to be incredibly flexible and creative in our marketing.  There has been a mixture of incredibly incentivised deals, greater flexibility offered to tenants and also implementing the strategy of splitting some of the units so as to appeal to the more local market where we identified a lack of stock was available in the sub 1,000ft² category.  In fact the 35,000ft² that has been let has been made up of over 15 different lettings ranging from 300ft² up to circa 8,000ft².

Chris Wheatcroft of Wheatcroft Properties, the landlord, commented:

“We are delighted with the work of FHP on this Park.  When they came on board with the marketing in 2009 we were really struggling with high vacancy rates and this meant that not only was our rent rolled down but we were also being hit by large Rates bills.  With a combination of the Office Agency Team letting the space and changing our marketing strategies and FHP’s Rates Department helping us on Rates savings, they have really in the last 2 years been able to turn the Park around and I am pleased to say that we are now full.”

Acting on behalf of private investor clients, in a deal brokered by Tim Gilbertson, Partner of FHP a lease has been agreed on substantial high quality office space in Linby.

With the benefit of extensive on-site parking and presented in immaculate order, the deal was rapidly struck with the eventual occupiers and the lease concluded within a matter of weeks.

Tim Gilbertson of FHP commented:

“Having acted for our client on this building in three or four previous lettings over the years, I knew that its perfect presentation, excellent specification and attractive out of town location would appeal to the market and pleasingly, despite the difficult world in which we trade this would prove to be correct as terms were agreed for a deal with the eventual occupiers within a matter of days.

With the lease completed swiftly, we wish the new occupiers well in their new home as they take advantage of the excellent open plan office space available which is presented to the highest order and the extensive on-site car parking available.

Yet again this letting shows that even in these troubled times if premises are presented well and agents react quickly to market premises extensively and sensibly then deals can still be done.

I am delighted to have secured further income for my client on this building, for whom I have acted for over 10 years.  It is these ongoing long term relationships which help secure deals despite the ongoing travails in the economy.”

For further information on this transaction please contact FHP on 0115 9507577.

Acting on behalf of private clients, joint agents FHP Property Consultants and Raybould and Sons have successfully completed the letting of 4 Riverside Court to Parker Hannifin. Parker Hannifin have taken a long-term lease of the 4,441ft² office building.

Parker Hannifin is the world’s leading manufacturer of motion controlled technologies and systems, providing precision engineer solutions for a wide variety of commercial, mobile, industrial and aerospace markets.

The Derby office will be home to Parker Hannifin’s local Parker Aerospace team.  The new location provides extensive meeting room and business support facilities to enable business to be conducted efficiently and comfortably within easy reach of their local clients. Co-located with Parker Aerospace is Parker Hannifin’s Fluid Connectors team.

Jonathan Sayer of FHP Property Consultants who completed the letting commented:

“The recent letting to Parker Hannifin is particularly appealing. The office building delivered the correct balance of accommodation and storage, enabling Parker Hannifin to locate both their Parker Aerospace and Fluid Connector teams within the same building. I wish the Parker team all the best for their future in their new facility.”

Jim McShane of Parker Aerospace added:

“This location provides the Parker team with the facilities to support the growing aerospace business and industrial customer base and underlines Parker Hannifin’s commitment to premier customer service. The facility includes new conferencing capabilities that complement and enhance our customer on-site support team service. “

Helen Longstaffe of DTZ acted on behalf of Parker Hannifin.

FHP have recently received instructions to market two period buildings on Regent Street in the heart of Nottingham’s Professional Quarter.

FHP’s Nottingham Office have confirmed that Coca Cola Enterprises Limited are to be the latest Tenant in McAleer and Rushe’s nine storey Waterfront House in the heart of Nottingham.

Coca Cola are moving on to the second floor and occupying approximately 8,700ft².  John Proctor at FHP handled the letting.

Acting on behalf of Clowes Developments (UK) Limited FHP has put offices under offer on the Strand Arcade in the Heart of Derby’s Cathedral Quarter in only six weeks. The offices had previously been on the market for over 12 months. From being instructed FHP were proactive in their approach to the marketing, highlighting the quality of the accommodation and the excellent value the offices provided.

George Dunnicliff of FHP added:

“Our proactive approach and market coverage enabled us to transfer this enquiry and put the office under offer within only 6 weeks of coming to the market. The good quality of office space and their great location within the Cathedral Quarter offer so much with the many shops, cafes and bars all within walking distance.”

For further details on office and retail opportunities within the Derby City Centre, please contact George Dunnicliff 01332 343 222.

Acting on behalf of Howard Pratt, Chairman of Godwin Developments, joint agents FHP and NG Chartered Surveyors are delighted to announce the letting of the offices at 52 The Ropewalk to Hallbrook Partners Limited, a financial services company specialising in redress claims.

Matthew Hall at Hallbrook Partners commented:

“We are delighted with our move to The Ropewalk, it fits the company’s planned expansion perfectly. Since 2008 we’ve established a unique business in financial services protecting our clients from securities fraud and seeking financial redress for investors who lost money as a result of negligent stockbroker advice. The relocation means we can now develop new services and grow the business further.”

Mark Tomlinson of FHP commented:

“This letting adds to a number of other deals that have taken place in the professional quarter in the last month.  Hallbrook Partners have been based in serviced offices since their inception and were quick to realise that they could vastly reduce their occupation costs by moving.”

Mark added:

“From putting the board on the property we had agreed terms within 2 weeks and completed the process 6 weeks thereafter.  This undoubtedly bucks the trend in the area and is a testament to the manner in which the offices were presented and the pragmatism shown by the landlord.”

Andy Smith of NG Chartered Surveyors commented:

“Since coming vacant the landlords have taken a proactive approach refurbishing the property to a high standard both inside and out. It was decided to provide an occupier with furniture in addition and in the case of Hallbrook this was a key factor.  A combination of the refurbishment and prominent position at the head of Oxford Street and The Ropewalk means the offices will offer a real presence for this growing local firm.”

For further information on this letting please contact Mark Tomlinson at FHP on 0115 841 1134 or Andy Smith at NG Chartered Surveyors on 0115 989 7099.

FHP are delighted to announce the letting of 9 East Circus Street to the Nottingham Yamaha Music School on a new 10 year lease.  The property comprises an attractive period office building set over four floors in this much sought after location, being located just a stones throw away from the Playhouse Theatre and the Cast café and bar.

Nottingham Yamaha Music School provides piano, keyboard and guitar tuition for children from the age of 3 right up to adults and currently have just under 300 pupils per week in attendance of their classes.  Their teaching methods have been developed and approved by Yamaha since 1954 and they have been based in Nottingham for the last 25 years, being 1 of only 3 approved Yamaha Music Schools in the UK.

Mark Tomlinson of FHP who acted on behalf of the landlord commented:

“The quality of this property, having recently been refurbished throughout, and its excellent location made it an almost perfect proposition for Yamaha Music School.  This property sits very well with their desired image for the high end clientele who they attract.

The property was brought to the market in February having been refurbished to a good standard.  This was the key to getting this space let in such a short period of time.”

Linda Jackson of Nottingham Yamaha Music School further commented:

“We had been looking for premises in Nottingham city with no luck, I contacted FHP gave details and was immediately sent the details, the property was perfect for us and with the help and support of Mark we breezed through what usually would be thought of as a very traumatic time.  We look forward now with a smile on our face.”

For further information on this letting please contact Mark Tomlinson at FHP on 0115 841 1134 or mark@fhp.co.uk.

Avonside Renewables has just moved into new premises in Carriage Court at the historic Welbeck Estate, marking another important milestone in the continuing drive to create a sustainable community at Welbeck and underscoring Avonside’s commitment to sustainability.

Avonside Group Services recently launched Avonside Renewables to provide a range of environmentally sound micro-generation roofing solutions to house-builders, housing associations, ALMOs, councils, construction companies and builders. 

Robert Mayo, Development Director at Welbeck Estates, said:-

“We are delighted to welcome Avonside Renewables to Welbeck. The focus of its business could not be more appropriate to our own vision and it is especially heartening to see such a forward-looking organisation now at work in such a historic setting.”

Andrew Morley, Group Operations Director at Avonside Renewables, said:-

“Choosing to base our operations at the Welbeck Estates was obvious, since both The Welbeck Estates Company and Avonside Renewables’ business models share a common goal – sustainability.  Welbeck Estates are determined to provide accommodation that is sustainable and Avonside Renewables is dedicated to providing relevant, innovative solutions, turning sustainability goals into reality.”

One of Britain’s leading roofing contractors, Avonside Group Services has been working for over five years with manufacturers of solutions and installing systems such as solar thermal and PV panels for improving the energy efficiency of properties on both the new build and refurbishment fronts. 

The launch of Avonside Renewables was a logical progression of the Group’s environmental credentials and a clear indication to the industry of its ambitions to offer the markets it serves with a complete package for the ‘design, supply, install and commissioning’ of Solar PV and Thermal systems. 

This new business has already been awarded the Micro-generation Certification Scheme (MCS) accreditation and the Renewable Energy Assurance Limited Scheme (REAL), certifying that it follows an accepted code of practice and meets robust quality standards.

For centuries, the story of Welbeck, one of England’s finest country estates, has been one of continuing and innovative evolution. The arrival of Avonside Renewables at Carriage Court, an important historic building offering modern office space in its grounds, opens a new chapter in that story.

Carriage Court will play a central role in bringing the Welbeck Project to life. The Welbeck Project aims to create a sustainable and thriving community in this setting of unique natural and architectural beauty.  Bringing together rural and creative industries, education and the arts, Welbeck will provide new opportunities for people to work, live, learn, and create.

Andrew Morley continues:-

“Being part of a well established nationwide group of companies, Avonside Renewables has complete access to the full facilities of Avonside Group Services, including financial  and management support in addition to access to resources from the extensive network of branches.” 

Avonside Renewables can also call upon the wealth of experience available. Avonside operatives are experienced in ‘Working at Height’ and are fully trained in risk analysis and follow safe systems of work. The management teams are NEBOSH qualified with supervisory staff qualified to either IOSH or more recently SMSTS.  Personnel ensure that all installations are left secure and watertight, regardless of the type of roof covering, which is core to ensuring customer satisfaction. 

“As Avonside Renewables’ logo suggests, its ambition is to play a part in making Britain greener,” concludes Andrew. “There can be nowhere better equipped to highlight that ambition than at Welbeck, which offers historic surroundings combined with the latest technologies and we are all very excited to be here.”

Laura West, Surveyor at FHP Property Consultants concluded:-

“The arrival of Avonside Renewables brings about a further piece of good news to Carriage Court which provides an ideal setting for creative and sustainable businesses. We are pleased to report interest in the remaining suites and hope that it won’t be too long before Carriage Court will be fully occupied.”

For further information on the remaining office suites please contact Laura West on 0115 841 1149.