Multinationals drive occupancy at Warrington’s Birchwood Park to 94%

Warrington business destination Birchwood Park has seen over 70,000 sq ft of office space snapped up since the start of 2017.

The figure, which marks a year-on-year increase of 45%, means the park welcomed 20 businesses during the period.

One of the biggest letting deals was signed with global tech company Ricoh, which moved into 305 Bridgewater Place.

Other businesses to land at Birchwood Park in the last 12 months include healthcare products company Werfen, dairy giant Müller and testing firm FOSS.

The scheme has also grown its presence in the nuclear services sector, boosted by the 2016 launch of the Cheshire Science Corridor Enterprise Zone.

Cavendish Nuclear is the latest occupier to join Birchwood Park under Enterprise Zone status, having revealed plans earlier this month to move hundreds of staff to the recently refurbished 106 Dalton Avenue.

Birchwood Park commercial director Martin O’Rourke commented: “2016 was an extremely successful year for Birchwood Park which saw us let nearly 115,000 sq ft of space, and I am pleased to say this has continued into 2017.

“Despite market uncertainties we have continued to see a high level of demand from businesses looking to set up a new base in the North West, ranging from start-ups and SMEs, to global corporates.

He added: “What has been particularly interesting since June 2016 has been the interest from international companies looking to locate onto Birchwood Park.”

The site, managed by property company PATRIZIA UK, now has a total occupancy rate of 94%, with £1.6m in rent secured during H1 2017.

Speaking further, Martin said: “With strong interest for our remaining spaces we’re confident we can build on this success in the remainder of the year. Birchwood Park offers a unique proposition for occupiers with its distinct community environment and flexible approach to leasing, and this continues to prove a real draw for businesses.

“With 700,000 sq ft of development land with outline planning consent on the park, there is also huge potential here for businesses looking for bespoke office or warehouse space.”

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