ROB Champion, (below), partner at Halls Commercial in Worcester, provides a tour of a farm conversion in the heart of rural Herefordshire for Office of the Month. Give us a brief description of Brockhampton:
It comprises a collection of previously redundant farm buildings south of Hereford which have been restored and converted into offices. The scheme consists of eight office units and one live/work unit, ranging from 300 sq ft to 1,561 sq ft. There are 25 car parking spaces with each occupier having at least one covered space.
Environmental sustainability has been a key element in the project. A ground source heat pump generates under floor heating for all units while a rainwater harvesting system is used to irrigate the grounds and flush loos. In May, the development won the building conservation prize at the RICS West Midlands Awards 2011.
What’s the most interesting feature about the development?
It has to be its stunning views – there can be very few more idyllic locations for your office than Brockhampton. Parkland rolls down the valley in front of the development, there’s a nearby arts and crafts church while only a short walk away are magnificent views over the River Wye.
What’s the history of the site and what first attracted the developer to it?
The buildings were originally constructed in 1834 and acted as the fulcrum for village life at the time. More recently, there has been a significant shift with small villages such as Brockhampton losing out to neighbouring larger villages and towns.
Our client, the landowner, was inspired to restore the historic buildings in an effort to bring life back into the village by presenting businesses with the opportunity to locate to one of the most picturesque locations in the country.
How much office space is occupied and how much is available?
Two of the units have been let and a third has just gone under offer. Interest in the scheme has been consistently strong and we anticipate the remaining six office units to be taken up quickly as businesses begin to realise the benefits of being located in such a glorious setting.
Who owns the building and how has it been financed?
The building is owned by the owner of the Brockhampton Estate and has been privately funded.
What rents are you quoting?
The quoting rents across the scheme are based on £10 per sq ft, per annum exclusive.
How much office space is occupied and how much is available?
