First Base and Patron Capital have bought Amex House on Edward Street in Brighton for a £100m redevelopment of the former American Express office.
Plans for the former European headquarters of American Express are still being worked up, but the two companies are proposing a mixed-use development including homes, workspace, retail and community facilities.
Since 2013 American Express has been operating from the adjacent office at 1 John Street, and demolition of Amex House started earlier this year.
It is First Base’s second project outside London, and also its second in Brighton. Earlier this year, in partnership with Hyde Group, it secured planning consent for 229 homes and flexible commercial space at Anston House. The property had been vacant for more than 30 years and subject to more than 20 failed applications until the recent consent.
Barry Jessup, director at First Base, said “There is a fantastic opportunity to re-energise this quarter with much-needed homes and modern spaces to do business and bring activity back to the street. We very much look forward to working with the local community and Brighton & Hove City Council to develop the plans.”
First Base will now start a stakeholder engagement programme meeting local residents, businesses, the council and other interested parties to develop plans for the site.
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