TWO deals within York’s commercial property sector have seen the city’s largest industrial letting since 1990 and the sale of a 17th century building.
Waterhouse Commercial Surveyors has completed a £250,000 deal for the freehold of 69 Micklegate, which has been sold to the York Conservation Trust.
The building, which dates from 1600, is a Grade II Star listed building, and has been acquired by the Trust after Waterhouse identified the potential suitability of the historic building to the organisation, which buys such buildings in York to retain the integrity of the ancient city’s architecture.
The property was for sale through Waterhouse Commercial Surveyors, based in Bootham, as commercial or residential property following a string of restaurants on the ground floor.
David Waterhouse, who runs the firm, said: “This timber built, brick-clad building, situated coincidentally opposite York Conservation Trust’s headquarters, is significant within the Micklegate Quarter, contributing to this unique streetscape.”
Meanwhile chartered surveyors Reeves & Co, also based in York, has completed a deal securing new premises for Gear4music.com at Clifton Moor.
The musical retailer which employs 100 people at peak times in York, has taken a sub-lease at the 135,090 sq ft, former Magsons warehouse unit.
Gear4music.com was launched in 2003 by Red Submarine and has become one of the UK’s largest musical instrument and equipment retailers with more than 200,000 registered customers.
Last year the business completed the relocation of its warehouse from Shipton-by-Beningbrough to the new site at Clifton Moor, and is currently in the process of relocating its offices before moving its showroom in April.
John Reeves of Reeves & Co said: “Gear4music had specific requirements for their new headquarters and warehouse premises and we’re delighted to have secured this landmark building for them.
“It’s a ringing endorsement for York that major businesses like Gear4music is choosing to remain in the city and are investing in large industrial premises.
“This transaction represents the largest industrial letting in central York since the original head lease completed in 1990.”
As part of its expansion Gear4Music is looking to employ 50 more people over the next two years.
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