Site acquired for new business quarter in Chester

Former Lloyds Banking Group site to make way for 500,000 sq ft of prime office space

Article posted: 15 Aug 2011

Muse Developments' acquisition of the 3.5 acre former Lloyds Banking Group site in Chester has been finalised. The acquisition will enable the company to move forward with its plans for a new Business Quarter scheme offering 500,000 sq ft of prime office space in Chester city centre, and the potential to create over 1,000 jobs.

The existing Premier House building will be demolished to make way for the first two phases of the development - two BREEAM Excellent, six storey Grade ‘A’ office buildings totalling 150,000 sq ft. Development will be complemented by the provision of new public realm works, linking the scheme with Chester Station and the Shropshire Union canal.

Muse expects to submit a planning application to Cheshire West & Chester Council in early 2012, with construction anticipated to start in 2013.

For Muse, development surveyor Phil Mayall said: “We have worked closely with Lloyds to ensure that the new development complements its campus whilst creating an exciting new business destination for Chester.  We feel that the location - with its strong transport links, amenities and close proximity to the historic city centre - will prove attractive to businesses looking for modern, sustainable premises.”

A vital part of Chester’s One City plan, the proposed Business Quarter, with its proximity to Chester Station, benefiting from a direct, two hour connection to London, will drive Chester’s commercial offer and economic growth, including the city’s retail and evening economies.

The announcement comes in the same month that Muse was named as Warrington Borough Council’s partner for the £130m Bridge Street regeneration project.

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Posted by Ingrid