Property briefs: Eric Wright; Urban Splash; The Hive

PRESTON-based Eric Wright Construction has completed a 10-month project to build the new Wigan University Technical College (UTC).
 
The £4.5m job included the interior refurbishment of Rushton Mill, a former grain warehouse, and the construction of a new three-storey facility.

Situated in the former Rushton Mill, the college will specialise in food production, green energy and recycling.

UTCs are new 14-19-year-old state schools with a vocational focus and private sector backing.

The one in Wigan has been supported by University of Central Lancashire, Wigan & Leigh College and companies including Heinz and Ainscough Group.

John Wilson, managing director of Eric Wright Construction, said: ‘I am delighted to have delivered such a ground-breaking, unique project which has been so well received by the local community. This was a particularly complex development which enabled us to utilise our project management and logistical skills. I am sure that the students will benefit from having such a great working environment.”

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MARKET research agency Join the Dots has taken 7,220 sq ft on the second floor of The Hive in Manchester on a five-year lease.

The firm is moving from Faulkner Street after experiencing a period of rapid growth. It has 80 staff and revenues of £4m.

Managing director Quentin Ashby said: “The Hive is very impressive and when OBI Property showed it to us it was clear we would be able to put our own identity into the space and create a workplace that we know our staff will greatly enjoy.

“Being in the heart of the Northern Quarter brings lots of benefits – great public transport access and with all the independent cafes and restaurants on our doorstep we’re looking forward to moving in.”

Edwards & Co acted for Argent and is the appointed letting agent on the Hive.

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URBAN Splash has agreed 13,000 ft of commercial deals agreed across its Liverpool portfolio.

The deals include existing tenants Sure Maintenance and the Royal Institute of British Architects both extending their leases with Urban Splash.

RIBA has announced that it will upgrade to a 3,700 sq ft unit at the Tea Factory in Wood Street while mechanical and engineering business Sure will take a 7,020 sq ft unit, increasing its space by 2,000 sq ft at the Matchworks in Speke.

Meanwhile, new tenants include YFR Ltd, a fundraising direct sales and marketing business, which has taken 741 sq ft at the Slater Street Studios, while Total Marketing UK has moved from Lodge Lane to a 1,507 sq ft unit at the Vanilla Factory in Fleet Street.

Commercial manager Nicky Harries said: “There is a lot of competition in Liverpool and I think we manage to retain tenants because we show an innate understanding of the businesses who make our buildings their home. Our approach is to work with them as they grow, something supported by our simple lease structures and general flexibility.”

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