Rumford confirms first deal at Liverpool office scheme

Rumford Investments has confirmed the first letting at its 20 Chapel Street office scheme in central Liverpool, which is part of the Unity development. Stockbroker Panmure Gordon has signed for 6,270 sq ft on the 14th floor of the building, which was completed last year. The rent is unconfirmed but is believed to be close to the record £20 per sq ft Rumford is quoting. Mike Stares, director of Rumford Investments, said: “The fact that we have brokered one of the most important inward investments this city has seen for some time demonstrates the quality we have on offer and the belief the market has in the building and Liverpool.” Some of Panmure Gordon’s Liverpool staff were formerly employed by rival firm Numis Securities, which recently closed its office in the city. Ernst & Young has been widely reported as having taken another floor at 20 Chapel Street but the deal has not yet been confirmed by Rumford. DTZ and Hitchcock Wright & Partners are letting agents at the scheme. Panmure Gordon was advised by Ridley Thaw.