Digital agency takes ninth floor at Bridgewater House

Dept has signed a 10-year lease at Apam's Bridgewater House in Manchester with the building nearing full occupation.

Advised by Edwards & Co, the company has signed for 17,150 sq ft in the building, which has undergone a £1m refurbishment, including improvements to its reception and the addition of a café and business lounge.

Other tenants in the 180,000 sq ft building on Whitworth Street include DFH Financial Solutions, Beech Construction, and Manchester City Council. OBI and Savills are the retained agents and represented Apam in the transaction.

Following the deal, only part of the eight, seventh, and third floors are available, with around 28,000 sq ft still to be let.

Pete Owen, senior asset manager at Apam, said: "Bridgewater House has become a highly appealing option for the growing number of businesses wanting impressive space in Manchester's vibrant city centre.

"Occupier interest has been very positive following the high-quality refurbishment and the addition of business and lifestyle amenities. Over the last 18 months we have let more than 55,000 sq ft with headline rents of £23.50/sq ft.

"The most recent letting to Dept committing to 17,000 sq ft is testament to the building's repositioning works we initiated, attracting a global digital agency further strengthening the tenant mix."

Andrew Timms of Edwards & Co added: "After several months of searching the market, Bridgewater House was identified as the perfect home for Dept's main UK base. Its large floorplates, listed façade and Mancunian vibe, coupled with its proximity to Piccadilly, made it the ideal choice. We believe Bridgewater House will provide for Dept's continued expansion in the city for many years to come."