Study Group takes 19,000 sq ft in Leeds

Securing the space at the refurbished 8 Park Row, the organisation will use it for an international study centre to be run in conjunction with the University of Leeds.

The Leeds office of Knight Frank and national agent Fisher German advised on the deal.

Relocating from Wellington Place, Study Group is taking a five-year lease at the landmark building in one of the most significant office deals in the city this year, taking floors three to seven.

The Leeds International Study Centre will be a base for progression of international students to the University of Leeds.

The ISC is a partnership that unites Study Group with the University of Leeds around the shared goal of increasing international student participation and success in global education. It has recently celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Over the years, the Leeds ISC has seen thousands of students from 95 countries receive offers of degree study at the University of Leeds after completing a pathway programme. Students from 64 nationalities have started at the Centre in this academic year alone.

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The ISC’s range of pathway programmes delivered by Study Group includes subjects spanning science, engineering, technology and mathematics (STEM), business, law, international relations, and social studies.

Eamon Fox, partner and head of development at Knight Frank in Leeds, said: “This letting is a ringing endorsement of the quality of 8 Park Row, one of the most elegant buildings within the professional core of Leeds. A comprehensive refurbishment inside has created an attractive contemporary office environment, while retaining the best original features.”

The building is within five minutes’ walk of Leeds station, and is on local bus routes.

Fox added: “8 Park Row has also been enhanced by the pedestrianisation of City Square, the planting of trees and the widening of pavements on Park Row, making it an exceptionally attractive street.

“At the same time, the building’s green credentials are exemplary, with top-quality air-conditioning, a BREEAM rating of very good, LED lighting, EV charging points. Overall, this is a future proof specification, which is perfect for any business.”

Fox said the deal highlights the central role education plays in the Leeds market, with the past two years seeing the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance move into the Electric Press building in the city centre, Leeds Trinity University open a new campus at Trevelyan Square in Boar Lane and the Mathematics School of Excellence move into bespoke space in Albion Street.

David Laws, partner and head of national offices for Fisher German, advised Study Group. He said: “Following an extensive evaluation of options within Leeds city centre, 8 Park Row provided a logical choice to accommodate the operational needs of the International Study Centre.

“The relocation from Wellington Place, Leeds will enable students and staff to occupy a prime city centre location in a recently refurbished building that provides excellent amenities and flexibility. The new facility will continue to support students progressing to the University of Leeds.”