Milestone transaction achieved at Pride Park

One of the largest office-based transactions in Derby in recent years has been completed at Pride Park.

Acting on behalf of Derby College Group, commercial property consultants Rigby & Co has successfully negotiated a sub-letting of an area of 40,000 sq ft within the college’s Johnson Building to the University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust.

The letting has enabled Derby College Group to relocate part of its curriculum and estate into the nearby Roundhouse complex, where work is currently underway to deliver a new automotive centre at the Stephenson Building following the securing of a £3.5 million government grant.

A new Institute of Technology (IoT) centre is being built at the same location, which will provide world-class training in engineering, manufacturing, and digital skills.

The hospital trust had spent two years looking for a consolidated base that would fulfil a range of functions, including records storage and office/training and administration purposes.

Heather Kelly, deputy chief executive at Derby College Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome The University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust into the Johnson Building.

“We have instructed Rigby & Co to market the rest of the building, which will be available for occupation from summer 2024.”

Russell Rigby, managing director of Rigby & Co, said: “This deal is a great outcome for both Derby College and the trust – two of Derby’s leading employers, both of whom are going through challenging times in reorganising their real estate.

“We are now actively looking for an occupier for the balance of the building, which extends to around 45,000 sq ft of high-quality offices, storage and space.”