Cleanship docks at 8 Nelson Mandela Place for new HQ

Cleanship, the marine environmental impact consultancy, has expanded its headquarters by taking new space at Topland’s 8 Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow city centre.

In a deal brokered by Knight Frank, the business – which also has a presence in Shanghai, Istanbul, and Hong Kong – has secured 5,100 sq. ft. on the third floor of 8 Nelson Mandela Place, moving from its previous location at Pacific Quay.

After a six-month search for new premises, Cleanship will now undertake a bold fit-out project on the space using only recycled materials and incorporating activity areas for staff.

Purchased by Topland in July 2017, 8 Nelson Mandela Place has undergone a significant refurbishment, including overcladding of the internal atrium and an overhaul to its reception area. Among the building’s other tenants are Corporate Travel Management, Shawbrook Bank, Watermans and the NHS.

Independent commercial property consultancy Knight Frank is joint agent on 8 Nelson Mandela Place with Savills.

Chris McMenemy, co-founder and managing director at Cleanship, said: “We have ambitious plans for expansion and required a headquarters that can facilitate our growth. 8 Nelson Mandela Place is the perfect platform for us to attract and retain the talent we need. We have plans to create a unique workplace that not only reflects what Cleanship is about as a business, but helps us to get the best from our talented team.”

Steve Pope, group director of property and asset management at Topland, commented: “We have made great progress at 8 Nelson Mandela Place since taking ownership of the building. By engaging with the tenants from the off, we have successfully re-geared several leases and made significant enhancements to the property. The space that Cleanship has taken was turned around in just three weeks following the previous tenant’s departure, underlining the level of demand for space in the building.”

Sarah Hagen, associate at Knight Frank, added: “Topland’s approach to 8 Nelson Mandela Place has been highly successful, pushing up rents and maintaining a high level of interest from potential occupiers. The area, as a whole, has undergone significant changes and will continue to do so with the redevelopment of Queen Street Station nearby. It is quickly becoming much more popular with businesses and we expect there to be more lettings activity to come.”