Preston Grasshoppers sell land to care home company in £800k deal

Rugby union side Preston Grasshoppers have sold land to North West Care Homes Limited.

The club signed an £800k deal to provide the company with 1.7 acres of former car park space on Lightfoot Green Lane.

Lancashire law firm Harrison Drury advised on the transaction, which will see North West Care Homes develop the site into a two storey care facility with 74 beds.

As part of the agreement, the company will also upgrade the club’s parking facilities at the rear of their ground, creating a 200-space matchday car park to replace the lost space.

Preston Grasshoppers’ general manager, Richard Ellis, said: “The sale of this land means that we can re-invest in the club for the future and improve our facilities as outlined in the development masterplan a couple of years ago.

“Our priorities will be to improve and extend the bar and catering facilities creating a café which integrates with the Guild Wheel and local residential community, to renovate the toilets and reception area and modernise the office shop, which along with the new car park will make a huge difference to our members and visitors.”

He added: “It’s an exciting time for the club and for the local area.”

The property team at Harrison Drury was led by Owen McKenna with support from Rhian Hawkins.

The firm’s executive chairman, John Chesworth, served as the main liaison with the club, for which he is a committee member.

Commercial property team director Owen McKenna commented: “Preston Grasshoppers’ deal with North West Care Homes makes good commercial sense and gives both parties a great opportunity to give something back to the local community.

“It was a pleasure to advise Richard and the committee on the sale. With the money realised from the sale the club can start to execute its future development plans.”

Work on the care home development will start this month, with completion due in June 2019. Work on the new car park is already underway.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →