Public service union Unison has bought Blenheim House, a vacant office block in Birmingham city centre, from Winslade Developments for just over £2m.
Local solicitor Lee Crowder, which was pipped to the post at Blenheim, has instead agreed a deal on 35 New Hall Street, the 1,486 sq m (16,000 sq ft) ex-Coopers & Lybrand building.
The union has taken the 1,535 sq m (16,550 sq ft) building for its new regional headquarters. It will move in following a five-month fit-out programme.
Sid Platt, Unison’s regional secretary, said the organisation decided to buy Blenheim House because the union wanted an asset. Lee Crowder had offered to take a lease on the building.
The legal firm has now taken two floors at 3,716 sq m (40,000 sq ft) 35 New Hall Street for what is thought to be less than the passing rent £182.99 per sq m (£17 per sq ft).
Lambert Smith Hampton has been appointed to sell the freehold of Unison’s existing offices, 836 sq m (9,000 sq ft) on Sutton New Road in the Birmingham suburb of Erdington. The company will also sub-lease the union’s 650 sq m (7,000 sq ft) offices on the 7th floor of City Tower, Hill Street, Birmingham.
DTZ Debenham Thorpe and Knight Welch Bryce were joint agents on Blenheim House. Unison was advised by the Economic Development Department of Birmingham City Council and LSH.Grimley is letting agent on 35 New Hall Street. DTZ Debenham Thorpe acted for Lee Crowder.
EGi News 28/01/97
