‘Return to workplace’ policies help boost lettings at converted mill complex

Dean Clough, a 22-acre mill complex in Halifax, has agreed deals totalling just over 112,000 sq ft during the last 12 months with a further 22,000 sq ft under offer.

This represents more than 20% of the 600,000 sq ft estate.

Dean Clough is the former home of what was once the largest carpet manufacturing business in the world. It now accommodates more than 150 businesses which together employ over 3,500 people.

Several high-profile relocations and growth plans have motivated the new deals over the last 12 months with Activate Group expanding into a new 13,870 sq ft space, Aggregate Industries taking 1,918 sq ft, and global operator Seven Glocon securing a 2,750 suite for its UK base.

Ramsdens Solicitors also relocated to occupy a 5,340 sq ft regional office, while visitor experience design company, The Creative Core, took a new lease for a 1,476 sq ft studio.

2024 also saw Calderdale College take occupation of its new 12,834 sq ft digital creative skills hub specialising in games design, esports, film, and media.

The college is preparing to double its student intake this year. 22 further office deals totalling 15,000 sq ft have also been secured while a 12,822 sq ft of space is currently being regenerated in preparation for an incoming public sector occupant.

Dean Clough’s workspace offering is supported by on-site amenity and wellbeing facilities. New occupiers in the last 12 months include contrast therapy club, Revive Wellness, and an expansion for Hubb Coffee Bars.

Lucy’s Little Bake House also moved its café on site with the need to hire more people to cope with increased customers.

In addition, lease renewals were secured with the UK’s largest online florist, Prestige Gifting, as well as Fuel Card Services Ltd and global insurance industry software developer, SSP.

Jeremy Hall, chairman and managing director at Dean Clough Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to report a hugely positive year for Dean Clough.

“With our commercial property agents reporting a healthy pattern of growth in market deals, and many employers now advocating a full return to the workplace policy, we are certainly seeing the effects of this.

“Trepidation through the pandemic, Brexit and the change in Government is also starting to diminish with a renewed outlook on sustainability and wellbeing in the workplace.”