20% of UK commercial stock unlettable by 2018 if sufficient steps aren't taken by government says GVA

As much as 20% of total UK commercial stock could become unlettable in 2018 if the necessary action is not taken to improve the sustainability of existing stock.

Property people: Paul Manning

Paul Manning, Senior Director in the Rating team at the Leeds office of GVA, the UK's largest independent commercial property advisor.

Leeds office market reaching a tipping point says GVA

A healthy office market in Leeds will lead to a tipping point in the next 18 months if the current demand continues, according to GVA - the UK's largest independent commercial property advisor.

GVA presents Q1 EPMR report

Overseas investors are maintaining strong interest in the UK commercial property market, supported by the current competitive level of sterling, according to the latest market analysis from GVA, the UK's largest independent commercial property adviser.

Management contract signed for Arndale House

GVA, the UK's largest independent commercial property consultant, has secured an instruction to manage one of Bradford's most prominent office buildings.

GVA secures another leading UK leisure team

GVA has acquired RGA Consulting, a leading UK hotel and leisure property specialist based in Edinburgh and London.

Former courthouse brought to market

Exchange Buildings in Hull city centre is being marketed by GVA following its appointment as agents by Law of Property Act (LPA) Receivers.

GVA man presents the case for Sunderland

Mike Cuthbertson, Regional Senior Director at GVA gives his views.

GVA secures office sale in North Tyneside

GVA have secured the sale of the former Mills Group headquarters at Earsdon Road, Monkseaton following upon the group's acquisition by Tesco.

Triodos Bank on the move

The leading ethical bank Triodos Bank is gearing up for its move to new HQ offices, and has released three properties onto the market through their agents GVA.

Gateshead Quays: The state of play by GVA

Tony Wordsworth, Director at GVA sets out plans for one of the North East's leading regeneration quarters.

GVA Project manages major new distribution facility alongside A19 at Wynyard Park

The Newcastle office of GVA has been appointed as Employer's Agent and Cost Consultant on one of the largest pre-let industrial deals in the North East for many years. GVA is project managing the new 343,000 sq.ft cross-dock warehouse at Teeslink on Wynyard Park, Stockton on Tees. The development is a joint venture between British Airways Pension Trustees Ltd and Sladen Estate Ltd, both of whom GVA works with closely on a national basis.

GVA's property management team expansion continues in 2012

GVA's Birmingham-based Property Management team has been strengthened with the appointment of a new Associate and the promotion of another.

£4,000 raised for Alzheimer's Society from 24 peaks in 24 hours expedition

Three Birmingham professionals have completed their fourth challenge to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Society, a charity very close to their hearts.

GVA appointed by administrators for Radisson Blu Hotel, Birmingham

GVA has been appointed by Paul Flint, Mark Orton and Brian Green of KPMG LLP, Joint Administrators to Beetham Hotels Birmingham Ltd, to dispose of the 999 year lease of the landmark Radisson Blu Hotel on Holloway Circus in the centre of the city.

Connells secures new city centre offices

National estate agency Connells has signed a 10-year lease for a ground floor retail suite at Lombard House on Great Charles Street, Birmingham.

GVA arrives at Victoria

Muse, the developer of Network Rail's Fish Dock site at Victoria Station in Manchester, has appointed GVA as leasing and investment adviser.

Scottish city centre and out-of-town office market remain steady

In the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2011 city centre and out-of-town office take-up in the UK, including Glasgow and Edinburgh, was down by just 4% on the quarterly average over the last three years.

Multi-million pound food stores are a catalyst for wider regeneration

The considerable value of food stores - some of which can be worth around £20 million - is not only creating development activity in a challenging market, but also acting as a catalyst for much wider regeneration, reports Paul Brewer, director and head of retail at GVA's Birmingham office.

Refurbished office space is an attractive option

Matthew Tootell, director of National Markets - Offices at GVA's Leeds office, says there is great appetite out there for relocating to centrally located, refurbished office spaces.

GVA to lead review of Thurrock's £75m commercial property portfolio

GVA Financial Consulting has been appointed to act as strategic property advisor to Thurrock Council as part of the local authority’s ongoing review of its operational and commercial property portfolio worth in excess of £75m.

GVA announces letting at Merchant Exchange

GVA, acting jointly with Winton Faith, has let the sixth floor of Merchant Exchange, 20 Bell Street, Glasgow on behalf of CCLA Investment Management. The office space, which extends to 3,556 sq ft, was leased to Scottish Consortium for Learning Disability (SCLD) on a five year lease at a headline rental of £14.00 per sq ft.

Two key appointments to build on another year of regional success

The UK's leading independent commercial property consultant has added two new members to its team of experts in Leeds after a record year for the business.

GVA retail team starts 2012 in bullish mood with five new appointments

GVA, the UK's largest independent commercial property consultant, has recruited five new members of staff to strengthen, bolster and expand its existing national retail agency division.

£23m student accommodation acquisition in Newcastle

Two prime student accommodation blocks in the heart of Newcastle city centre have been acquired by LaSalle Investment Management in a deal worth £23.1million.

MOAF announces 2011 take up figures

The Manchester Office Agents' Forum (MOAF) has announced the results of office take up for 2011. City centre take up totals 700,000 sq ft down from 1.3m sq ft in 2010, which was boosted by the Co-operative Group pre-let at NOMA.

GVA Humberts Leisure strengthens Scottish leisure platform

The UK's largest independent commercial property adviser has appointed Adam Lansdown FRICS as a Principal Consultant within the company's GVA Humberts Leisure Edinburgh team.

A long time to wait for HS2

Alistair Andrew, Associate at GVA's Leeds office, welcomes the Government's decision to press ahead with High Speed 2 to improve journey times between Leeds and London but urges ministers to push through the necessary legislation as quick as possible.

GNB Industrial Power (UK) Limited and Exide Technologies (Transportation) Limited choose Middlebrook for new UK headquarters

Acting on behalf of GNB Industrial Power (UK) Limited and Exide Technologies (Transportation) Limited, GVA has completed the acquisition of a new UK headquarters on Orbit Development's iconic mixed use business, retail and leisure park at Middlebrook, Bolton.

Low sentiment doesn't reflect positive facts says GVA

Sentiment in the regional office markets has declined markedly since the summer according to GVA’s latest edition of The Big Nine – the quarterly regional office market review.

HS2 green light will deliver a major boost to Birmingham's economy

Ian Stringer, regional senior director at GVA's Birmingham office comments on why today's High Speed 2 decision helps highlight the urgency with which UK plc must progress with infrastructure projects to bolster economic growth:

The government's housing strategy could deliver a welcome boost to the West Midland's economy

The Prime Minister's New Year message is that the economy is 'in difficult times'. A widely held view is that it takes seven years to climb out of a recession, so we are only just past the mid-way point of the painful legacy of the economic recession that commenced in 2008.

Reduction in development activity may lead to a fall in construction tender prices

GVA's Building Cost Update report reveals that development activity has decreased in recent months, albeit from a very low base.

Medina Dairies takes two units at Globe Park, Rochdale

Joint agents GVA and Barton Kendal have let Units 5 and 6 at Globe Park, Rochdale to Medina Dairies, on behalf of its client Greater Manchester Property Venture Fund (GMPVF). The company has taken 3,500 sq ft on a five-year lease, at a headline rental of £4.25 per sq ft.

Mark Rawstron looks back on the twists and turns of 2011

Mark Rawstron, Regional Senior Director of GVA in Manchester looks back on the twists and turns of 2011.

National housing strategy will fall short of meeting rising demand warns GVA

The UK’S largest independent commercial property advisor GVA has set out its analysis of the Government housing strategy, warning that it does not go far enough to address the housing crisis in England.

Property experts forecast challenging year

Commercial property consultancy GVA is looking to grow its Yorkshire team to maximise business in a challenging market in 2012.

Donations are piled high to help Bristol's homeless

Bristol property adviser GVA is delivering nearly half a ton of food to Caring at Christmas, the Bristol charity that runs a shelter for the homeless or vulnerably housed over the Christmas period.

Pallet Hub takes the fast track at Central Park

Driving along the M49, cranes are once again active over Avonmouth, as a new distribution facility for CHEP UK Ltd is beginning to take shape. With the steel structure now in place, the 50,000 sq ft unit on 8 acres at Central Park is on a fast track schedule to be complete in spring 2012.

Picton UK Listed Real Estate secures new tenants at Queens House, Glasgow

Picton UK Listed Real Estate, landlords at Queens House at 19-29 St Vincent Street, has announced a raft of new companies that have taken space in the building.

£5 billion infrastructure investment will help to strengthen the UK economy

Stephen Hollowood, Senior Director at GVA, the UK’s largest independent commercial property advisor, comments on the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement:

New time limits for planning applications isn't the answer to encourage speculative development

Ian Stringer, Senior Director at GVA, the UK’s largest independent commercial property consultant, comments on how the Chancellor needed to go much further with the Autumn Statement to stimulate economic recovery and ignite new private sector development:

GVA welcomes Chancellors Green Deal announcement

£200m stimulus to incentivise owners and occupiers to invest in energy efficiency.

Lord Heseltine presents Liverpool's investment case at One Wimpole Street

GVA and Liverpool Vision host high profile panel in setting out bright future for UK’s fastest growing economy outside London.

GVA welcomes Government housing strategy but voices concern over lacking longer term view

Gerry Hughes, Senior Director at GVA comments:

GVA Humberts Leisure hosts breakfast briefing at 2011 BISL Conference

The future of the sports and leisure industry in an uncertain economic climate.

GVA secures Glasgow's largest single site

Miller Developments has instructed the UK's largest independent commercial property adviser, GVA, to give agency advice on the former Hillman Imp car production plant at Linwood in Glasgow.

GVA welcomes localism act but small print needs addressing

Stephen Hollowood, Senior Director at GVA comments:

Three join GVA's planning team in Manchester

GVA has welcomed three new members to its planning, development and regeneration team in the North West.

Edinburgh to see rise in demand for student accommodation

The introduction of higher tuition fees south of the border raises the likelihood that the Edinburgh student accommodation market will be bursting at the seams, according to GVA, the UK’s largest independent commercial property consultant.

GVA announces appointments and promotions in London

The UK’s largest independent commercial property consultant has made a handful of appointments and promotions in its Mayfair and the City offices in London.

GVA acquires new senior surveyor in Liverpool

James McGivern has joined the Land & Development Team as senior surveyor at GVA’s Liverpool Office, to further expand the company’s consultancy and agency offering in Liverpool and throughout the North West.

GVA’s Planning, Development and Regeneration team secures consent for Cockenzie CCGT and gas pipeline

GVA on behalf of ScottishPower Generation Ltd has secured various consents for a new Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power station at Cockenzie, East Lothian.

Public sector lettings see Birmingham’s office market enjoy a buoyant second half of 2011

By Charles Toogood, Director, GVA Offices.

30,000 sq ft let at Shepley Industrial Estate

Unit 6 (10,686 sq ft) at Shepley Industrial Estate South in Audenshaw, has been let to textile manufacturing company, Multiple Winding, on a five year lease.

H2E Commerce takes Unit 13 at Orion Park

GVA has let Unit 13 at Orion Park, Crewe, to H2E Commerce, on behalf of joint venture developers, Graftongate and Highcross. The company has taken the 25,280 sq ft unit on a 10 year lease with a five year break, at a headline rental of £4.95 per sq ft.

MOD sites can ease the planning pressure on BANES

Three surplus MOD sites being brought to market may be the answer to the dilemma faced by Bath and North East Somerset Council (BANES) on reaching its housing numbers.

GVA wins CIL commissions in Swindon, London and Doncaster

GVA, the UK’s largest independent commercial property advisor, has been appointed by Swindon Borough Council and the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham to undertake Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Viability Studies. GVA has also been appointed to assist Doncaster Metropolitan Council in considering the potential impact of introducing CIL.

GVA in running for best commercial property adviser

GVA, the UK’s largest commercial property adviser, has been shortlisted for Best Commercial Property Adviser at the International Property Awards, in association with Bloomberg Television.

Prime Huddersfield regeneration site brought to market

More than three acres of prime development space at a key regeneration site in West Yorkshire is being marketed by GVA, the UK’s largest independent commercial property consultant.

£5.5 million boost for seaside economy

An ambitious extension to a seaside holiday park is expected to boost the local economy by more than £5.5million.

Building costs impact on construction industry

The GVA Building Cost Update report provides a timely reminder of the continuing impact of the economic downturn on the construction industry. Twelve months ago, development activity (and hence construction activity) in the commercial, industrial and residential sectors was increasing, albeit from a very low base, on the back of a modest increase in capital values. However, with weaker economic growth and static capital value increases, this increased development activity has ground to a halt. With a weak economic and property market outlook, and with development finance still severely constrained, it is unlikely that there will be much change in the amount of development activity over the next year or two.

AA calls out GVA for major office relocation

GVA has acquired 12,105 sq ft of office space at Fulwood Court in Preston, on behalf of the Automobile Association (AA).

GVA's tyre-ing day helps keep Wales tidy

Commercial property adviser GVA has joined forces with environmental campaigners Keep Wales Tidy to improve the quality of the environment in Cardiff.

GVA lets 19,371 sq ft to Moss Electrical at Trafford Park

Property consultant, GVA, has let Unit 18 at First Avenue/Europa Way at Trafford Park, to Moss Electrical, on behalf of Legacy Portfolio. Moss Electrical, which is one of the largest independent electrical wholesalers in the UK, has a strong presence in the South but the 19,371 sq ft unit will be the company’s first branch in the North West.

Business is buzzing in Okehampton

A former dairy in Okehampton is being transformed into a factory for manufacturing bee hives.

New retail openings planned at Cribbs Causeway

Next has taken an extra 10,000 sq ft of space at The Mall at Cribbs Causeway to create a new flagship store, coinciding with a number of other lifestyle retailers also signing new leases. The additional space has provided Next with a 43,000 sq ft store on a 15 year lease.

Regional office market sees steady improvement yet underlying concerns remain

The regional office occupier market has improved each quarter this year following a sluggish start, according to a recent report by GVA.

GVA secures deal at Trafford Park

GVA has let the former Project Furniture Company showroom at Unit 1, Wharfside in Trafford Park, to stationery supply company, DG Office Supplies.

GVA appoint new leader for Planning Team in Newcastle

GVA who recently moved to new premises in Central Square, Newcastle have appointed Gordon Metcalfe to the position of team leader within their expanding planning unit in Newcastle.

Private equity continues to show confidence in holiday park sector

As economic uncertainty persists, the holiday park industry on the other hand continues to present investment solace for lenders says leading UK leisure property specialist GVA Humberts Leisure.

Delta Properties appoints new joint venture partner for Central Park

Delta Properties, the Group which owns the 640 acre Central Park in Severnside, has today announced the appointment of Roxhill Developments Limited as its new joint venture development manager for Central Park.

GVA markets prominent fish market site

A former international fish auctioning facility on Hull docks is being brought to market by leading UK commercial property consultant GVA. The Corporate Recovery team at GVA’s Leeds office has been appointed as Law of Property Act (LPA) Receivers.

Major new depot for City Link at Cribbs Causeway, Bristol

UK-based express delivery company, City Link, has recently acquired a new regional distribution centre of 66,753 sq ft on 4.84 acres adjacent to The Mall regional shopping centre, at Jc 17 M5, Bristol. The parcels company has taken the building from owners Prudential and Capital Shopping Centres, on a new ten year lease, at an undisclosed rent.

GVA secures five lettings in a month

Deals to bring five thriving firms to prime business park space have been sealed by leading property consultant GVA.

Property experts leap of faith for charity

A daredevil team of property experts are walking over the edge of a Leeds landmark building to support young and disadvantaged people.

F&C REIT completes letting of Darton warehouse to Kingspan Renewables

In one of the largest deals in South Yorkshire this year, F&C REIT Asset Management, acting on behalf of clients, has completed the letting of a 65,000sq ft warehouse at Dearne Mills, Darton, near Barnsley, to Kingspan Renewables, which will support its manufacturing and distribution operations in Wakefield.

James Latham is on the move

James Latham has acquired new premises at Tingley, in Leeds, to help facilitate expansion in the Northern region, specifically along the M62 corridor.

Defence Infrastructure Organisation disposes 60 acre RAF site

The sale of RAF Daws Hill, has recently been completed by GVA on behalf of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, through an unconditional sale to Taylor Wimpey UK Limited for a sum in excess of £30m. The site has potential for residential led mixed-use development to consist of approximately 550 residential units and commercial space subject to gaining the necessary planning consents.

Aoife McEvoy promoted to associate

Aoife McEvoy has been promoted to associate in the Land and Development team at GVA, Manchester.

Yields on prime retail assets to harden and secondary asset investment to rise says GVA

According to a report by the UK’s largest independent commercial property consultant GVA, investment into secondary retail assets is set to increase. A continuing shortage of prime stock in the market could mean an investor focus shift from prime to secondary property over the coming year.

GVA delivers Bristol's newest hotel on-time and within budget

Bristol’s newest hotel, the 151 bedroom Travelodge in Mitchell Lane, in the Redcliffe area of central Bristol, has been completed to time and to budget. Project managers GVA have now handed the hotel over to Travelodge for the first guests to move in.

First occupier secured for Bristol's Central Park

Central Park, Bristol, is pleased to announce its first pre-let to CHEP UK Limited for a new pallet distribution facility of 50,000 sq ft. The lease is for a 15 year term, with annualised rent increases in line with RPI.

GVA in the running for three EG awards

Leading UK commercial property consultant GVA has been shortlisted in three award categories at this year’s Estates Gazette Awards.

GVA completes £550,000 office fit out in the heart of Glasgow City Centre

GVA has completed the office fit out of the landmark Glasgow Grade A office development, 2 West Regent Street, on behalf of Digby Brown LLP, Scotland’s largest specialist personal injury practice.

Igloo Consortium wins preferred bidder status for The Northwest Urban Investment Fund (JESSICA) Merseyside

A consortium led by Igloo Regeneration with the full support of the Liverpool City Region Local Authorities has been selected as preferred bidder to establish a regeneration fund which will help enable projects critical to the region's economy to go ahead.

Record vacancy rates across Scotland's business parks in first half of 2011

Figures released by the UK's largest independent commercial property consultant GVA, have shown that office space take up across Scotland's business parks dropped in the first half of this year while floor space availability rose, taking vacancy rates up to a record high for the period.

GVA report sees cautious increase in business parks activity and record low in construction

A new report from GVA on occupier activity on the UK’s business parks showed an increase in activity in the first half of 2011. Yet, activity is still subdued amid persistent economic uncertainty.

GVA acquires Acuity Management Solutions from Broadgate Estates

This week GVA FM, the facilities management (FM) arm of the UK’s largest independent commercial property consultant, has acquired Acuity Holdings Ltd from Broadgate Estates Ltd, together with 70 strong Acuity Management Solutions Ltd.

Vacancy rate falls on South West Business Parks, but region holds steady compared to rest of the UK

Bristol and Bath Science Park continues to be the focus for business park activity in the South West region, according to a new report from property adviser GVA on occupier activity on the UK’s business parks.

GVA Schatunowski Brooks appoints more directors to strengthen "UK's leading team"

GVA Schatunowski Brooks has bolstered its specialist and market leading Rights of Light team through the addition of two new directors in Matthew Craske and Kaivin Wong.

GVA Humberts Leisure instructed on sale of landmark Blackpool hotel

Hotels and leisure property advisor, GVA Humberts Leisure, has been instructed to sell the landmark Queen’s Hotel, which occupies a prominent position on Blackpool’s South Promenade.

F&C Reit lets 245,000 sq ft let at Fradley Park, Lichfield

F&C REIT has let a combined 245,000 sq ft of new high-specification warehouse space at Fradley Park, Lichfield, to DHL and retail warehousing and distribution specialist Amethyst Group. GVA’s Industrial team acted on behalf of F&C REIT, together with Kingstons Commercial and CBRE.

Blacknest Gold and Country Club - For sale

GVA Humberts Leisure, the property specialists to the golf and golf hotel industries, is instructed to market Blacknest Golf & Country Club, which is situated close to the Surrey / Hampshire border in the South Downs National Park. Offers in the region of £1.25 million are invited for the freehold property.

UK would benefit from a building scrappage scheme

Matthew Tootell, Director at GVA, calls for the UK to reinvigorate the property market and address growing sustainability issues faced by the sector by introducing a scrappage scheme.

GVA ranked number one supplier on OGC Framework

GVA, the UK's largest independent commercial property consultant, has asserted its dominance in the public sector consultancy market once again.

Public and private sectors partner in Lancashire to develop super sports villages

The Lancashire Sports Partnership in association with GVA Robson Sports and Sport England are working together to explore the potential for Super Sports Villages in Lancashire.

GVA wins property management contract at Victoria Square House

GVA’s property management team has been appointed by asset managers F&C REIT Ireland to manage Victoria Square House, one of Birmingham’s most high profile office buildings, located opposite to the Council House on Victoria Square in the centre of the city.

Regional office market sees steady take up in Q2 amid concerns for the longer term

This week GVA released its latest quarterly report on city centre and out of town office take up in the UK’s nine leading regional city markets. The findings reveal that there has been a reasonable level of take up in the second quarter of 2011, yet concern remains over the longer term.

A new planning act for Wales?

The Localism agenda has left the development and planning industry in England in a state of confusion. This is not the case in Wales, say advisers at GVA, where following the ‘yes’ vote in March’s referendum, there is a real opportunity to introduce a Welsh planning system that can give development and investment a timely boost.

60 GVA employees engage with local community as part of Give and Gain Day

More than 60 employees from GVA gave up a full working day to engage in a number of community projects in Birmingham, which were organised with Business in the Community.

Building surveyor returns to his roots with GVA

Leading property adviser GVA has appointed a new Building Surveyor for its Cardiff office.

Bristol property staff put their best feet forward for charity

The Bristol office of leading property adviser GVA is leading the way in raising funds for a national charity for disabled children.

Three director promotions for GVA's Birmingham office

GVA Birmingham, the region’s largest property consultancy firm, has made three director promotions.

GVA's PDR promotions in the North West

GVA has promoted three members of its Planning Development and Regeneration (PDR) team in Manchester. Iain Jenkinson has been promoted to senior director, Chris Argent has been appointed from senior planner to principal planner and Jenny Hope has become planner after achieving RTPI accreditation.

GVA wins Corporate Property Adviser of the Year at The Property Marketing Awards

Leading UK property consultant, GVA has won Corporate Property Adviser of the Year at this year’s Property Marketing Awards in London.

Why the city centre office will continue to be in vogue

Desks are significantly smaller, open plan offices are now regarded as the norm for even the most senior fee-earners, hot-desking is commonplace, and non-stop improvements in technology are making it effortless to work from home. However, property heads at large corporates are not slashingthe amount of office space required in their forecasts. The city centre office remains vital, but the way the internal fit-out is planned and configured is changing radically.

GVA moves up in Newcastle

GVA has outgrown it’s Newcastle office and has relocated to Central Square to enable future expansion of it’s North East regional office.

GVA Humberts Leisure markets one of the UK's landmark piers

GVA Humberts Leisure has announced that Brighton’s landmark Grade II listed pier is for sale for the first time in over 25 years. Acting on behalf of the current owners, the Noble Group, GVA Humberts Leisure advises that the disposal will involve the sale of the entire issued share capital of the Brighton Marine Palace & Pier Company, which was established by Act of Parliament in 1888, to develop and operate the Pier.

GVA appointed to provide property management services to Brandon Hire

Brandon Hire, provider of tools and equipment to the building and construction industry, has appointed leading property adviser GVA to provide a range of property portfolio management services for its national estate.

GVA welcomes leading UK leisure team into the fold

GVA has today welcomed the Humberts Leisure team, a leading UK leisure property specialist, into its Leeds office following its acquisition last month.

Brighton Pier, Brighton, East Sussex - For sale

GVA Humberts Leisure has announced that Brighton’s landmark Grade II* listed Pier is for sale for the first time in over 25 years. Acting on behalf of the current owners, the Noble Group, GVA Humberts Leisure advises that the disposal will involve the sale of the entire issued share capital of the Brighton Marine Palace & Pier Company, which was established by Act of Parliament in 1888, to develop and operate the Pier.

New GVA research explores what the growth of the green economy will mean for commercial property

New research from leading UK property consultant, GVA, explores how the growing green economy will impact key players in the property industry – notably developers and local authorities – and what they can do to take advantage.

GVA Humberts Leisure takes shape in Cardiff

The merger of Humberts Leisure with leading UK property adviser GVA, has taken shape in Cardiff as the Humberts team join forces with GVA at their One Kingsway offices.

USC letting further strengthens Swindon retail offering

Ignis and Shearer Property Group, has signed a deal with high-street brand USC to take its first store in Swindon at The Parade Shopping Centre.

Freehold of distinctive Clifton property changes hands

The freehold of an iconic retail property in Clifton, Bristol has changed hands. Property adviser GVA, acting on behalf of Associated Property Investors Limited, has purchased the prime freehold of 43 – 45 Queens Road in Clifton, for £1.632 million which represents a net initial yield of 6.36%.

Leeds team walk to charity success

A team from leading UK property consultant GVA completed a sponsored walk in excess of 30-miles for the second year running raising more than £13,500.

Factors driving Out of Town Offices

Looking back over the last decade it is extremely apparent that take up of out of town offices has been concentrated within the former Enterprise Zones and as a result both take up and development momentum has fallen off within the non-EZ office and business parks across the region.

The Craythorne, Burton-upon-Trent - For sale

GVA Humberts Leisure, property specialists to the golf and golf hotel industries, is instructed to market The Craythorne, Burton-upon-Trent. A guide price of £1.15 million has been set for the freehold property, which is being offered to the market as the current owner is retiring and relocating abroad.

New GVA research shows slow change likely in property development sector

Leading UK property consultant GVA has launched its latest research looking back at the last 12 months in property development terms, and what will affect activity over the next few years.

Delivering the Newcastle Gateshead One Core Strategy 2030

Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council are working together to bring forward the NewcastleGateshead One Core Strategy 2030 which will be focused upon 7 defined areas.

GVA hosts London investment seminars for UK's major regional cities

The month of May saw leading UK property consultant GVA host a series of seminar’s in the City of London to promote inward investment into what it believes will be the UK’s leading three 'investment hub' cities outside the capital.

Pushing sustainable office space

It is clear that more environmentally efficient and sustainable offices make financial sense – to occupiers, investors and developers alike. Increasingly stringent legislation remains a key driver towards forcing office buildings to be more sustainable, combined with increasing commitments towards Corporate Social Responsibility by businesses.

Rising levels of business investment is a clear indication of market recovery

The UK occupier market continues to recover from arguably its worst downturn since the Second World War, but so far progress has been slow. However, while household spending is fragile, the Bank of England’s latest Quarterly Inflation Report reveals that business investment and stockbuilding contributed 2.5 percentage points to GDP growth during 2010, and the early signs are that investment levels for 2011 are continuing to rise. Consequently, our own forecast for property rental growth has been upgraded slightly from the start of the year from 1.3 per cent to 1.6 per cent.

Turf cutting ceremony marks start of work at new Chew Medical Practice

Work has officially started on the site of the new and improved surgery for the Chew Medical Practice.

Logistics Sector in North East faces supply and demand mismatch

Although demand from the logistics sector in the region is limited, the supply of specialist new build distribution units is low, particularly in the 100,000 sq ft plus size range and with little prospect of any speculative development in the short term companies who need space will find themselves with limited choice.

GVA reports on upsurge in automotive component sector across the West Midlands

GVA reports that the West Midlands automotive industry is currently thriving, helped by a depreciated sterling driving demand for British exports. This foreign demand is helping to support domestic suppliers of intermediate and capital goods to the export sector, particularly in the aerospace and automotive industries.

GVA reports on automotive component sector across the West Midlands

GVA reports that the West Midlands automotive industry is currently thriving, helped by a depreciated sterling driving demand for British exports. This foreign demand is helping to support domestic suppliers of intermediate and capital goods to the export sector, particularly in the aerospace and automotive industries.

Investment team's multi-million pound success

The Investment team at leading UK property consultancy GVA is going from strength to strength after recording another hugely profitable year.

Don Pedro Avenue comes to market

On behalf of real estate fund managers PRUPIM, GVA has brought a 108,000sq ft warehouse to the market on Don Pedro Avenue, Normanton.

GVA sponsors UK's first ever green film festival

Leading UK property consultant GVA will sponsor the UK's first ever Green Film Festival when it starts today (Friday 20 May).

GVA highlights signs of market recovery

Rising levels of business investment is a clear indication of market recovery.

GVA's Birmingham office expands Property Management team

The Property Management Consultancy team at GVA’s Birmingham office has appointed Claire Bramhall to the post of senior surveyor.

GVA wins property management contract at Opus 40, Warwick

GVA's property management team has been appointed by Opus Land to manage the Opus 40 business park, which is located just off J15 of the M40. As well as managing the communal areas and parking across the 35 acre business park, GVA will be working closely with the development team on the planned future phases.

GVA to secure leading UK leisure team

This week GVA exchanged contracts with Humberts Leisure, a leading UK leisure property specialist, to acquire the business.

String of promotions at property company

Leading UK property consultant GVA has announced a number of senior promotions in its Leeds office.

GVA support local charity NECA

One of the UK’s leading property consultancy firms has struck up an innovative relationship with one of the region’s charities. For some years GVA’s Newcastle office has provided advice on property matters to the North East Council on Addictions (NECA). NECA promote the recognition, prevention and treatment associated with addictions and substance misuse including alcohol, drugs and gambling.

GVA complete Czech expansion for Fabory

Leading UK property consultancy GVA has completed its international building contract for Fabory Group, a leading fasteners distributor, on time and on budget.

GVA acquires key property management firm

Leading commercial property consultant GVA has completed the acquisition of Land and Property Management Ltd to bolster its existing Property Management Consultancy offer in Glasgow.

GVA's new regional office market report shows below average performance, but some hopeful signs

GVA’s latest quarterly review of the regional office market, ‘A tale of nine cities’, shows a subdued start to 2011 in city centre and out-of-town take up. Combined, the two markets have experienced just 1.25 million sq ft, 19% below the quarterly average.

Chew Medical Practice set its sights on new premises

The Chew Medical Practice in Chew Magna has announced that its long awaited plans to upgrade its current surgery are about to become a reality. GPs at the practice are investing in new purpose-built premises, which will enabletheir patients to benefit from improved facilities and a wider range of medical services.

GVA debates scrappage scheme for buildings

“COULD THE UK BENEFIT FROM A SCRAPPAGE SCHEME TO REINVIGORATE THE MARKET AND ADDRESS GROWING SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES FACED BY THE SECTOR?”

St Annes contractors takes new unit at Maple Court

Building, refurbishment, painting and decorating specialists, St Annes Contractors has taken 4,000 sq ft (372 sq m) of new office space on a five-year lease at Maple Court, Whitemoss Business Park, Skelmersdale. Developed by Alderley Edge-based Metier, Maple Court is a state of the art office scheme, which has raised the bar in terms office accommodation in and around the West Lancashire town.

GVA helps to develop sustainable property management toolkit

The Better Buildings Partnership (BBP) has published its latest in a series of toolkits, developed in partnership with GVA to enable managing agents to actively manage buildings using sustainability best practice.

Fit-out market badly affected by rising material prices, reports GVA

GVA's quarterly review of the construction market has revealed that material price growth is increasing the pressure on already tight contractors’ margins, with continuing competition for tender prices.

Team GVA cycles 950 miles in 6 days for charity

A three man team from leading property consultant GVA joined 100 cyclists from around the UK property industry to take on the gruelling MIPIM cycle to Cannes 2011.

Leeds firm get its walking boots back on for charity mission

More than 30 members of leading UK property consultant GVA will be completing a sponsored walk in excess of 30-miles for the second year running for Candlelighters Trust.

Leeds firm DIY challenge for charity partnership

Leading UK property consultant GVA’s Property Management Consultancy team (PMC), in partnership with Leeds Cares and Bagnalls, has completed a DIY Challenge for Stainbeck United Reformed Church in Leeds.

Sale marks final piece in jigsaw for waterfront warehouses

The last of the distinctive industrial warehouses in Ferry Street, overlooking Bristol's Floating Harbour, have been sold.

GVA's experts comment on the contents of the 2011 Budget

Our experts' take on what it means for housing, planning and sustainable projects

GVA advances the debate on the Localism Bill and how it will affect London business and planning

A number of leading figures joined together at a breakfast event on 17 March to debate the Localism Bill and on the implications for London. The debate was joint sponsored with Snapdragon Consulting.

GVA fronts the debate on how regional UK cities can make the most of London's position on the world stage

At a GVA-sponsored round table at MIPIM 2011 on 10 March, GVA’s Chief Executive, Rob Bould, joined with Mike Bear, the Lord Mayor of London, and Baroness Jo Valentine, Chief Executive of Think London and London First, to answer the question ‘What can the rest of the UK do to benefit from London’s continuing success?’

GVA unveils funding solutions to unlock development, regeneration and infrastructure projects

Leading UK property consultant GVA launched a comprehensive new toolkit of integrated funding solutions at MIPIM last week.

GVA and Strettons to sell Suffolk hotel

The Joint Administrators of Elizabeth Estates (BS) Ltd have appointed property consultants, GVA and Strettons, to jointly market The Limes Hotel in preparation for auction on 4 April at The New Connaught Rooms, London.

GVA North West continues to help the homeless

Leading property consultant, GVA, has continued its support for homeless charity, the Booth Centre, based in Manchester Cathedral, with a donation of £3,000 raised by its Liverpool and Manchester offices.

How will Birmingham's office market fare as the market improves?

With the market beginning to pick up much needed momentum, George Jennings, Associate at GVA’s Birmingham office, takes a look at the potential issues.

GVA strengthens its property management offering

Leading property consultant GVA has appointed a new director and a further two qualified surveyors to its property management consultancy team.

GVA secures sale at Penrhyn Court

UK property consultant, GVA, has completed the sale of a 637 sq m (7,000 sq ft) industrial unit at Penrhyn Court, a high quality development on Knowsley Business Park, to local packaging company, Parkers.

Kings Orchard attracts two new occupiers

Two new lettings have been completed at one of Bristol city centre’s landmark office buildings, Kings Orchard.

Soil Association plans move to Anchor Road

The Soil Association intends to redevelop the former gas works site in Anchor Road, Bristol, thereby helping to complete the final part of the regeneration jigsaw on the northern section of Harbourside.

Industry heads warn of nimbyism stifling success of Localism Bill

GVA hosted a Question Time-style debate this morning (3rd March 2011) to discuss ‘planning in the era of localism’.

GVA's Monique Royle named as Women In Property's National Chairman

A key member of GVA’s Birmingham team has been appointed as national chairman of the Association of Women in Property.

New GVA research shows cautious recovery for business parks tempered by geographic and sector factors

GVA, the leading UK property consultant, has just released its spring 2011 Business Parks Review, which tells a mixed tale of recovery.

GVA opens debate for scrappage for buildings scheme

A new report by leading UK property consultant GVA highlights how a new scrappage for buildings scheme, alongside current initiatives, could offer a dual solution to help stimulate UK construction and meet emissions reduction targets.

Edward Dry joing GVA's Corporate Recovery team

Edward Dry has been appointed director in the Corporate Recovery team at GVA. Edward joins the company from Sanderson Weatherall, where he was an executive director and board member.

GVA unveiled as a leading sustainability consultant

Leading property consultant GVA is one of the best placed real estate advisors in the UK to drive new revenue in sustainability advisory services, according to a recent report by independent analyst firm Verdantix.

Borrowers need to do their homework before approaching lenders

Leading hotel operators, banks and investors reconvened at the annual GVA Hogan Lovells hotel conference in London last week where Alan Parker, the former CEO of Whitbread gave a keynote address.

Molson Coors aquire 200,000 sq ft from CBRE investors at Marchington Industrial Estate, Staffordshire

GVA’s Birmingham office has let 200,000 sq ft of industrial storage space at Marchington Industrial Estate in Staffordshire to leading global brewer, Molson Coors Brewing Company, which is to be managed by DHL.

Brookfield Business Park 70% let as Abtek Biologicals signs up

Abtek Biologicals Limited has taken the 3,038 sq ft Unit 7 at Priority Sites’ Brookfield Business Park in Aintree on a five-year lease.

GVA Schatunowski Brooks appoints new director to enhance rights of light offering

Latest addition continues company's national drive to meet niche market demand

GVA disposes of Springfield Rd Industrial Estate, Hayes

On behalf of LaSalle Investment Management, leading UK property consultant GVA has sold the Springfield Road Industrial Estate, Hayes for £9.135m to Threadneedle Property Investment Limited.

GVA launches flexible new meeting space in London West End office

GVA has today opened a vibrant new meeting space - called 'the hub' - at its Mayfair office.

Regional office market set to hold firm says GVA

2011 could mark the year the private sector fought back. The regional city office market will hold firm in 2011 says leading UK property consultant GVA.

GVA asks: Can cities deliver on carbon reduction targets?

The Government expects property to lead the way in securing the UK’s tough commitment to carbon emission reductions. New research by leading UK property consultant GVA, examines the part property is playing across the major cities, as well as what can improve, and the likely impact on the commercial sector.

Localism Bill's Big Society agenda could put planning in the hands of nimbys, warns GVA

The much-anticipated Localism Bill outlines radical changes that will; introduce elected majors into 12 English cities; give local authorities more control over finances and social housing; and - controversially - it will push the ownership of the planning debate to communities. Heralded as the centrepiece of government efforts to decentralise power away from Whitehall, GVA welcomes the Bill’s overriding big society theme, but warms that localism must not become parochialism.

GVA report gives Bristol's sustainability aspirations positive boost

Bristol’s aspirations to become the UK’s leading sustainable city have been given a boost with the findings of a new report from property consultancy GVA, “Emission Impossible”. The report, issued this week, studies eleven of the UK’s major cities including London, Birmingham and Manchester, and shows Bristol performing strongly in its targets to reduce carbon emission levels.

Borough Care lays down roots at Acorn Business Park

Property advisor GVA has acquired Stanley House, at Acorn Business Park in Stockport on behalf of one of the northwest’s leading care home providers, Borough Care Ltd.

New director at GVA Liverpool

Andrew Watson has been promoted to director in GVA’s Liverpool office. Andrew, who heads up the firm’s valuation team in the city, has worked for GVA since June 2000, initially in its Manchester office, before moving to Liverpool in 2008.

As UK economy slows, GVA head of research responds to talk of interest rate rise

Stuart Morley, Director and Head of Research at leading property consultant GVA believes it prudent to raise the base rate in Q4 of 2011 to 1%, but not now, despite calls from the Monetary Policy Committee to press ahead.

GVA director says queues of investors signal positive times ahead for central London

Developers, architects and designers ignore rights to light issues at their peril says GVA specialist

The recently reported rights to light case involving a completed commercial scheme has once again shown that developers who alter or build property that interferes with a neighbouring building's rights to light without a suitable agreement in place are putting themselves at huge financial risk. The case also confirms how crucial it is to access rights to light advice - like that offered by GVA Schatunowski Brooks - early on in the development or design process.

GVA appointed on major deal study

Leading UK property consultant GVA has been appointed by Dover District Council, Kent County Council and the Environment Agency as the lead consultant to undertake a comprehensive Study of Deal, on the South East Coast.

GVA supports Landaid with £15,000 abseil

Leading UK property consultant GVA is proud to have raised £15,573 for property industry charity, LandAid, with a mass abseil on the first ever LandAid Day on 15 October 2010.

New owners for landmark Cambrian hotel

Property adviser GVA has secured the sale of the former Cambrian Hotel in Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire, on behalf of the Joint LPA Receivers RJ Belcher and GB Judd from GVA.

GVA planners help cutting edge development get the green light

Advice from GVA's London based planning team has helped Nick Jacob, of Rowan Asset Management, to obtain the unlikeliest of planning consents.

Out with the old and in with the new

A new chapter begins as GVA heritage stays but Grimley goes

GVA's global 2011 charity adventure

Leading UK property consultant unveils 'Miles Matter' for Whizz-Kidz in its bid to exceed previous years fundraising record

GVA strengthens market leading compulsory purchase team

Leading UK property consultant GVA has bolstered its existing specialist and market leading national Compulsory Purchase business with the appointment of Matthew Bodley MRICS as Director and head of the unit.

Newcastle Journal Commercial Property Feature: Office Development in Market Towns

Northumberland is a typical rural county with large areas of moorland, hills, valleys and forests whereas the urban south east comprises 5% of the land area but accommodates in excess of 50% of the county population.

Insolvency Risk Services set to move into office space at City Gate Nottingham

The Birmingham office of GVA Grimley has acquired 5,307 sq ft of Grade A office space on behalf of specialist insurance broker AUA Insolvency Risk Services Ltd (IRS) at City Gate in Nottingham’s city centre.

North West Insider - Power of Ten

Mark Rawstron, Regional Senior Director at GVA Grimley, says: How will 2010 be remembered by North West businesses?

Commercial Property Column - BPR - November 2010

With availability of space at business parks now at its highest level in over 14 years, are we seeing the death of the business park or could the model reinvent its offering to meet the requirements of the modern occupier?

Newcastle Journal Commercial Property Feature: Newcastle City Centre Offices

The Newcastle City Centre office market has in common with other provincial and regional cities suffered as a result of the economic recession, the pre-election and post-election uncertainty, the public sector comprehensive spending review and the likely loss of jobs within the public sector which could imply both the release and non take-up of office space.

GVA Grimley promotes Richard Lace to Associate

Richard Lace, from GVA Grimley’s offices team has been promoted from principal surveyor to associate.

GVA Grimley Reports on Strong End of Year Performance

Leading UK property consultancy GVA Grimley Limited will shortly present its financial results year ending 30 April 2010 to Companies House.