International digital agency moves into historic Manchester building

International digital agency Dept has moved into one of Manchester’s most prestigious office blocks.

Catella APAM, a specialist UK real estate asset and investment manager, negotiated the deal on behalf of Britannia Inves.

The firm has agreed a new 10 year lease for the ninth floor of Bridgewater House totalling 17,143 sq ft (1,593 sq m).

Bridgewater House has recently undergone a £1m refurbishment, offering a new, modern reception space along with café and business lounge.

The recent development works have also provided brand new meeting pods, cycle storage, shower and changing facilities.

Located on Whitworth Street, Bridgewater House is just two minutes from Manchester’s Oxford Road station with St Peter’s Square and its surrounding amenities five minutes away.

Pete Owen, Senior Asset Manager at APAM, said: “Bridgewater House has become a highly appealing option for the growing number of businesses wanting impressive space in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.

“Occupier interest has been very positive following the high-quality refurbishment and the addition of business and lifestyle amenities.

“Over the last 18 months we have let more than 55,000 sq ft with headline rents of £23.50 per square foot.

“The most recent letting to Dept committing to 17,000 sq ft is testament to the building’s repositioning works we initiated, attracting a global digital agency further strengthening the tenant mix.”

Daniel Barnes, associate director in the office agency team at Savills, said: “The rich heritage of the property, its fantastic location, and the recent refurbishment has reinforced Bridgewater House as leading office accommodation in Manchester city centre.

“Following a string of recent lettings, we’re really pleased to have let the largest space in the building – the whole of the ninth floor – on behalf of our client.”

Dept employs over 1,100 people in eleven markets across Europe and North America.

The move to Bridgewater House is testament to the agency’s rapid growth in the UK, where it recently announced the acquisition of Manchester agency, e3creative.

As the agency’s main UK hub, the interior design of the space at Bridgewater House will emulate Dept’s flagship offices in mainland Europe.

Andrew Timms of Edwards & Co, who represented Dept, said “After several months of searching the market, Bridgewater House was identified as the perfect home for Dept’s main UK base.

“It’s large floorplates, listed façade and Mancunian vibe, coupled with its proximity to Piccadilly, made it the ideal choice. We believe Bridgewater House will provide for Dept’s continued expansion in the city for many years to come.”