National Open College Network announces HQ move to Sheffield city centre's Acero

The National Open College Network (NOCN) has been named as the newest tenant at Acero in Sheffield, which is moving 80 people into its new headquarters on the third floor of the building.

Acquired in May by real estate adviser APAM for £26.6m on behalf of its client, Britannia Invest A/S, Acero is situated in Sheffield Digital Campus (DC) on Concourse Way.

Totalling over 80,000 sq ft across six floors, the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rated Acero was developed by Scarborough Group and completed in July 2017.

The property comprises a combination of large, open plan and flexible floorplates of up to 15,000 sq ft and features a triple-height reception, 62-space car park, secure cycle parking and shower facilities.

The property is currently multi-let to three tenants, co-working provider Spaces, management consultancy firm Atkins and software firm Simcyp, which combined have taken over 47,000 sq ft since completion last year.

APAM has also committed to further investment at Acero and has appointed fit-out contractor, OVO, to create a reception and ancillary space in the building. Work is due to start in July.

Peter Owen, asset manager at APAM, said: “Acero was one of the largest speculative office developments to complete during 2017 in the north of England.

“When we took the decision to purchase the building, it was already 60% let, testament to the quality of the space and its excellent location.

“I look forward to welcoming a wide range of businesses to Acero, building on the success already seen at this development.”

Simon Renny, financial director at NOCN, commented: “We are looking forward to moving our staff into this landmark building. The space is superb and offers our business the chance to grow alongside some high-quality neighbours.”

Colloco, CPP and Knight Frank have been appointed to let the remaining space in the building.

Tim Bottrill, founder and owner of Colloco, said: “Acero has attracted four high-quality tenants since it completed in 2017. This is testament to the quality of the building and the development team.

“APAM has secured an investment at the right time and we, alongside CPP and Knight Frank, are confident that we will reach 100% occupancy by the end of the year.”

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