Cheetham & Mortimer finds convenient home for Waitrose

MANCHESTER-based retail property consultancy Cheetham & Mortimer has secured the acquisition and letting of retail space in Knutsford, South Manchester, to Waitrose.

Acting on behalf of a private client, the firm acquired acquired the freehold of 28/38 Princess Street, Knutsford – previously occupied by Travel Bag and Blockbuster Videos – and let it to Waitrose, which will open one of its new convenience concept stores in the 11,500 sq ft unit.

The supermarket chain, which is owned by John Lewis Partnership, has agreed a 25-year rental deal at a price of £140,000 a year. Refurbishment work will begin during the autumn and the unit will open next spring.

Rob Millington, partner at Cheetham & Mortimer, said: “We’re delighted to have attracted a high quality occupier to Knutsford town centre and secured a fantastic opportunity for our private client.

“This site acquisition and letting demonstrates to the retail property market that there are deals to be done and with our specialist knowledge we have been able to create a bespoke investment.”