Home Office close to major North West letting

Leeds-based Commercial Development Projects is close to securing one of the largest lettings outside London this year. The developer is poised to sign a 150,000 sq ft prelet with the Home Office at its 100 Birchwood Corporate building in Warrington, Cheshire.   The deal comes shortly after the group was granted detailed planning consent to refurbish the 55,000 sq ft building and extend it by 95,000 sq ft.   The Home Office, advised by Knight Frank, is expected to sign a 25­year lease on the property. The rent is undisclosed. The Home Office launched its requirement in 2008. It will consolidate around 800 staff from 12 regional offices into a North West hub. All parties refused to comment.   daniel.cunningham@rbi.co.uk