FCA expands in Leeds
The Financial Conduct Authority has committed to taking 36,000 sq ft at 2 Wellington Place across the top two floors, currently under refurbishment.
The watchdog currently occupies around 20,000 sq ft at 6 Queen Street and is growing as part of its pledge to have 1,000 staff in Leeds. The FCA opened its fist base in the city in September 2022.
The move to 2 Wellington Place will see more than 350 employees relocate from the FCA’s current Leeds office in 2028.
Miles Jones, regional development director at Federated Hermes MEPC, developer of Wellington Place, said: “This letting is testament to the quality of our offer and our continued commitment to delivering exceptional, sustainable workplaces that meet the evolving needs of modern occupiers.
“The FCA’s decision further reinforces Wellington Place’s position as a leading business destination at the heart of Leeds’s ‘Northern Square Mile’, a thriving hub for financial, legal and professional services.
“Alongside this significant transaction, we continue to see strong demand from prospective occupiers for space at 2 Wellington Place, reflecting the market’s appetite for premium office accommodation and future-focused workplace design within a vibrant and established business community.”
Pritheeva Rasaratnam, head of the Leeds office at the FCA, said: “This move reflects our continued commitment to Leeds and our confidence in the city as an important financial and economic centre.
“It will give our colleagues a high-quality environment to work and collaborate in. It also reflects our wider strategy to strengthen our national footprint and grow our capabilities outside London.”
Once complete, 2 Wellington Place will offer over 119,000 sq ft of Grade A office space across seven floors, designed to support the evolving needs of today’s businesses. The building will be all electric with sustainability at its core. It is targeting both an EPC ‘A’ rating and BREEAM Excellent.
The refurbishment will include a remodelled entrance and reception area, leading to a stylish business lounge. Flexible floor plates with exposed soffits will create a modern working environment.
Occupiers will also benefit from facilities including changing and shower rooms, 140 lockers, a cycle maintenance hub and 152 secure bicycle storage spaces.
In addition to high-quality workspace and amenities, occupiers will enjoy access to Wellington Place’s business community, networking opportunities, wellbeing workshops, and a growing mix of local food and drink options.
JLL acted for Wellington Place on the FCA letting, with the FCA represented by Cluttons.
