Acting on behalf of The Copas Partnership, national commercial property consultancy, Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH), has secured the pre-let of a new office development in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire.
Practicus Ltd, an existing Henley tenant, has signed a new 10 year lease with a five year break option on 5,106 sq ft of space within the Riverside Barns at Remenham Farm, a brand new development project converting the existing historic barns on the riverside one mile from Henley town centre. Founded in March 2004, Practicus is a specialist in the practical delivery of change within organisations. It has five offices worldwide, and its move from The Smith Centre, The Fairmile in Henley, will support its business expansion and growth plans. Practicus was represented by Aitchison Raffety.
“This 5,106 sq ft upgrade to our office space supports our strategy to create a ‘super office’ in Henley-on-Thames and demonstrates our commitment to the town,” said CEO, Jason Luckhurst. “The icing on the cake is that this is such a prominent and prestigious office location – the surroundings are stunning, with a glass-fronted view of the River Thames and the Henley Royal Regatta course. This will provide an outstanding environment for our staff who will be able to enjoy riverside lunches, walks in the open countryside or even the ability to cycle into the town centre with the provided bicycles. We are looking forward to working with the Copas family to make this an aspirational place to work.” Practicus will take occupation of the Barns in the summer of 2012.
The Riverside Barns scheme – which will total 10,000 sq ft – is being developed by The Copas Partnership, a family-run business based in Cookham. They will be working with local architects, JSA, from design through to build completion. James Smith, Director of JSA Architects of Maidenhead, added “The project is progressing well and, despite the recent weather conditions, is still on programme. The majority of the structural alterations have now been completed and many of the features in the barns have been retained, providing exciting spaces maximising the river views. The central courtyard now has a real ambience and will be further enhanced with the relocation of the existing cast iron weighbridge feature. All members of the team are finding the nature of the project very exciting and rewarding.”
Locally based Farr & Roberts of Maidenhead have been contracted to deliver the build project. Company owner and Technical Director, Ron Wilson, added: “We are delighted to be working for the first time for the Copas Family, on the prestigious commercial redevelopment. Farr & Roberts relishes the challenge of the project to create modern 21st century office space while incorporating the underlying need to retain the various buildings’ inherent historical aesthetics.”
Mark Harris, Associate Director in LSH’s Maidenhead office, concluded: “This is an important transaction for Henley’s office market. Not only does it see a prominent Henley tenant expand its business operations, it also marks much improved commercial confidence from the landlord and tenant alike in committing to the development of a new scheme. Its proximity to the M4, M40 and A404, as well as the rural location and traditional style of the redeveloped Barns, make Henley an attractive proposition for occupiers looking to move from larger office centres in the Thames Valley.”
A further 5,000 sq ft of space is available to acquire, and the agents have already reporting interest in 2,500 sq ft of this to satisfy other requirements. LSH and Duncan Bailey Kennedy act as joint marketing agents on behalf of the landlord.