Leeds property firms agree merger

PROPERTY consultancy Ryden has merged with Hill Woolhouse property management.

The newly-merged firm will double the size of Hill Woodhouse’s Leeds operations, and will work under the Ryden brand.

Ryden’s portfolio now extends to around 6.3m sq ft of space, with around 1,500 tenants and a rent roll of £50m.

Nine Hill Woolhouse Property Management (HW) employees, including founders Tim Pike and Nick Ellaby, join 15 staff at Ryden’s offices in Carlton Tower.

Bill Duguid, managing partner of Ryden, said: “As part of our strategy for growth we have been actively pursuing opportunities in Leeds.

“This merger substantially enhances our Leeds office and property management business and adds strength to our senior management team, which will be of great benefit to clients.”

Matthew Edwards, regional managing partner in Leeds comments:” We are able to give clients the best of both worlds, as together we have a very experienced team with acknowledged industry experts.

“We can also now offer a property management accounts team based right here in Leeds and we have the backing, experience and introductions that come from being part of the bigger Ryden brand.”

Of the merger, Tim Pike, director of HW, said: “The Hill Woolhouse team and our managed property portfolio complement Ryden’s Leeds office, with the combined teams able to provide a range of professional services with great expertise to the benefit of all clients.

“We are all looking forward to this new venture and the opportunities ahead.”

Both Ryden’s Leeds office and HW were established in 1995.

Hill Woolhouse Property Management was advised by law firm Gordons LLP. Ryden was represented by Vialex.