A HALLIWELLS team was behind the biggest leasing deal in Liverpool’s history, which was unveiled last week.
The team, led by the firm’s client relationship partner Kevin Lee, steered through the agreement to let out 220,000 sq ft in The Capital building.
Working on behalf of the Downing Property Group, Halliwells negotiated with both new tenants the UK Border Agency (UKBA) and existing anchor tenant RSA.
The deal will see more than 2,000 UKBA staff move into Grade A-equivalent refurbished space.
Mr Lee, who was supported by real estate partners Mark Gaffney, Alex McCann and construction partner Ron Farrell, told LDP Legal: “This has been a very complicated deal involving dozens of inter-related property transactions which required the mobilisation of a large team across our real estate, construction and engineering, planning and environmental & regulatory teams.
“Halliwells is absolutely delighted to have represented Liverpool’s largest commercial property group on the biggest deal in Liverpool’s history.”
A team of more than 20 lawyers drafted and agreed around 100 completion documents involving UKBA and RSA.
The agency, part of the Home Office, announced the 15-year lease had been signed last week.
Downing has invested £15m to create new high-quality refurbished office space alongside additional business and lifestyle facilities at The Capital since it acquired the building in 2006.
Downing chairman George Downing said: “Our investment in The Capital has played a significant role in the wider regeneration of Liverpool’s commercial district.” Economic development agency Liverpool Vision will move in late spring from its current fifth floor offices to the 10th floor to facilitate the move.
Eddy Montgomery, director of operations for the UK Border Agency in the North West, said: “By moving to a newer, more efficient headquarters, the UKBA will save taxpayers around £10m. This will improve communication and help play a vital role in providing an efficient and effective service to the public.”
UKBA staff are currently spread across six locations in the city.
