Property firm builds its portfolio with town centre office block acquisition

Yorkshire-based property company, Rushbond PLC, has acquired The Exchange in Harrogate, a 10-storey office building above the town’s railway station.

The acquisition is part of Rushbond’s strategic plan to grow its portfolio of commercial assets in Yorkshire, having also recently purchased the Bank House in Leeds – the former home of the Bank of England.

The Exchange building is one of the few Grade A office developments in Harrogate town centre.

It is currently home to a range of businesses from software development companies to law firms and architecture practices, and also features two retail units on the ground floor.

Rushbond will now undertake a programme of renovations to the building and the few remaining vacant suites – which range between 765 sq ft to 5,300 sq ft – with a focus on upgrading the specification of the interiors and improving energy efficiency.

This is the second recent major investment in the town for the property company, which recently confirmed work was starting on site to transform Harrogate’s Herald Buildings – the former headquarters of the Harrogate Advertiser – into a new retail and apartment scheme.

Richard Baker, from Rushbond, said: “The Exchange building represents an incredible asset management opportunity for us.

“There is no better address for businesses wanting to locate in central Harrogate, with stunning views across this beautiful spa town and countryside beyond.

“The transport links are second to none and there are substantial onsite car and cycle parking provisions.

“We believe the planned programme of works will reinforce The Exchange’s attraction to a range of future occupiers who see the benefits of locating here in one of the most attractive towns to work and live in the UK.”