August 31, 2016
Colworth House has signed up six new tenants, just a month after opening its doors following renovation works. The iconic Grade II* listed mansion house, situated at the centre of Colworth Park, is fast-becoming the thriving business hub set out in renovation plans. Colworth House underwent six-months of restoration work to create inspiring and contemporary office space, whilst retaining the original architectural charm of the 18th-century mansion.
The historic accommodation officially re-opened its doors to businesses on 30 July 2016. Many tenants will move in as soon as September.
Set in 91-acres of rolling parkland, in the heart of Bedfordshire, it offers tenants access to unrivalled facilities; from conference and meeting suites, to sport facilities, including a golf course and gym, as well as a restaurant and catering services.
Amongst the companies setting up shop in Colworth House is a property specialist, an accountancy firm, a data and cablings engineer, and companies providing building trades and professional chauffeur services.
Austin & Addison, an accountancy firm providing consultancy, business advisory and compliance services to SMEs, is relocating to Colworth House this September. Securing an office for their staff, David Robinson will move from a nearby site in Thurleigh, Bedford.
David Robinson said:
“The location is absolutely gorgeous – the surroundings were a big draw for us. The facilities are also much better than we’ve previously had access to, and we’re looking forward to being based in a lovely historic building.”
He added, “Moving’s always going to be a bit of hassle, but Keith Purdie and his team have been superb, making everything as straightforward as possible.”
Keith Purdie, Colworth Park’s Business Development Manager, said:
“It’s been fantastic to welcome so many dynamic businesses to Colworth House. Colworth Park has always been celebrated for its inclusive and collaborative campus culture, and it’s clear that Colworth House will forge its own vibrant community within the campus too.
“We’ve had great feedback from new tenants so far, and considering how recently we finished the renovation works, there’s been a lot of interest from other businesses interested in taking space too.
He added: “I extend a warm welcome to all the companies who have or are the in process of moving in – wishing you every success in your new homes!”
Bespoke lettings agents, Paragon Property Management and Lettings Ltd, will move into Colworth House in September. The independent property management specialists, established in 2004, excel at letting out beautiful, period buildings, therefore it was fitting for them to operate from one too. Penny Kealaher, Managing Director, who is relocating with two staff, said:
“We’re really excited about the building itself, primarily because it reflects the market we operate in. It will be fantastic for us to invite clients and visitors to our new home – they’ll be impressed by the grandeur of Colworth House and the surrounding grounds. We’re also looking forward to using all the facilities available – especially the amazing conference suites and restaurant, both will be great for holding client meetings.
She added: “We’re really optimistic about the opportunities this move will bring the company. We’re already looking to expand our business and invest in new staff and Colworth House is the perfect place to facilitate that growth, and give us the flexibility and space we need to do so.”
Previously based in the nearby village of Sharnbrook, Paragon Property Management, currently serves Bedford and Northamptonshire areas, working primarily with landlords with a portfolio of exclusive accommodation.
It’s not just established businesses moving into Colworth House, but start-ups too. Hunter & Uro, family law specialists, were the first of the new tenants to move in. Keen to establish their firm at Colworth House, the company moved into another onsite facility, The Exchange, in May, until the renovation was complete. They finally moved into Colworth House on 18th July 2016.
Pui Uro, partner at the firm, said:
“What initially attracted us to Colworth House, and the site as a whole, was the atmosphere. Colworth House and the Park echoes the values and reputation we aspire to present to our clients. Basing ourselves here will help us build the right image.
She added: “Moving in was really easy and the team at Colworth were brilliant.”
Serving Bedford and Northampton, Hunter & Uro specialises in matrimonial finances including private businesses, pensions and other aspects of separation.
One company familiar with the Colworth Park site is CCUK MK; a corporate chauffeur business that has moved to Colworth House from one of the park’s other office buildings.
Being based at Colworth Park since 2011, and providing a sizable tenant with chauffeur services since 2003, CEO Shakeel Kalyan has always been a big fan of the building. He said:
“Not only am I really fond of the historic building, but this move has also been a cost-effective decision for us. We’re moving into a great space, whilst also benefiting from a competitive rate. Everything about the move has been straightforward and simple and we’re really look forward to moving in.”
The other two companies moving into Colworth House are RCD Installations, a high-tech company that provides a wide range of electrical and data installations, and BDS Flooring Solutions Ltd, who supply and fit and install a range of soft floor finishes.
Colworth House offers bespoke contemporary office space to accommodate anything from a one-person micro-office up to suites for 30 people or more.
Link: http://www.colworthpark.com/news/six-new-businesses-move-into-newly-renovated-colworth-house/