India Buildings space on offer ‘in heart of business district’

Oct 1 2008 by Tony McDonough, Liverpool Daily Post

AN AGENT appointed to market one of Liverpool’s best-known office buildings says reports of the city’s central business district shifting to the Old Hall Street area are premature.

Neil Kirkham, partner at Hitchcock, Wright & Partners (HWP), claims Liverpool’s traditional core is still very popular with occupiers.

HWP has been appointed to market India Buildings, in Water Street, along with Keppie Massie, by the asset managers of the site, Atlas Management.

Mr Kirkham said: “India Buildings is arguably one of the finest trophy office buildings of its type in the central business district of Liverpool.

“This is the next stage of India Buildings’ long and illustrious history. Atlas is embarking on grand scale refurbishment projects to the building, including the arcade area, common parts and the comprehensive refurbishment of the entire fifth floor to the highest standards.

“There has been much talk of the central business district moving towards Old Hall Street; however, when accommodation of this quality is available within such a landmark building in such close proximity to Liverpool One and other Leisure/Retail operations, I feel that argument fails somewhat and occupiers will naturally gravitate to an area that offers staff amenities on their doorstep.”

Situated in Water Street, the Grade II listed India Buildings occupy an entire block and are one of the largest and most aesthetically outstanding office blocks in the city. It last changed hands in 2004 for £45m – a record for the city at the time.

Originally built in 1831 for the Blue Funnel shipping line, the property is a major part of Liverpool’s heritage and features stunning American architecture, including the beautiful vaulted arcade that runs through the centre.

Having been updated and improved over the years, the premises were eventually finished by renowned Liverpool architect Herbert Rowse, in 1952, after suffering extensive damage in World War II.

While keeping the imposing and impressive façade, Rouse balanced the interior with an elegant, ornate ceiling in the main entrance hall that provides, to this day, a contrast between the magnificence of the architecture and the modern office.

Various office suites are available, ranging from 500 sq ft to 35,000 sq ft on a single floor plate.

All of the space has the potential to be sub-divided into versatile, bespoke, self-contained units.

tonymcdonough