Grant Thornton takes 10,000 sq ft at Leeds’ City Square House
The financial advisor is relocating from its Whitehall Riverside premises, in a deal brokered by Knight Frank.
Spanning 140,000 sq ft, the 12-storey building was developed by MRP, completing in May last year.
The grade A office building was 85% let before it had even completed, demonstrating the demand for premium space in the city.
Now, it is almost fully let with only 6,000 sq ft available.
Other occupiers include Liberty Global, Barnett Waddingham, and law firm DLA Piper.
CBRE advised Grant Thornton on the deal.
Dan Dickinson, partner and practice leader for Yorkshire at Grant Thornton UK, said: “The building’s sustainability credentials, substantial amenities and modern design will provide our people with a great base from which to support our clients in the region.”
Eamon Fox, partner and head of the Leeds office of Knight Frank, said: “This latest signing means the development is now 96% occupied, 12 months from completion of the building.
“Securing this prestigious deal is a very significant and positive statement of intent in the long-term future prosperity of office space in Leeds and, indeed, in urban centres throughout the UK.
“We expect this strong demand for some of very best workspace in the city will continue.
“The Grant Thornton deal is the fifth involving high-calibre companies moving into City Square House… The remaining available space will help to address the pressing need for quality Grade A office space in the city centre.
“This is a significant deal for the city of Leeds, a vote of confidence in the city and its economy. Amidst this challenging economic climate, this is just the boost the whole region needed and a genuine cause to be optimistic about the commercial property sector in Yorkshire.
“The regeneration of the city centre of Leeds is now paying dividends for the city’s economy and reputation and City Square House, so brilliantly developed speculatively by MRP, is a shining example of what can be achieved with vision and courage.”
