Wakefield city centre’s Merchant Gate development hits the market

The landmark mixed-use Merchant Gate development, in the heart of Wakefield, has hit the market.

English Cities Fund has appointed the Leeds office of global property consultancy Knight Frank to manage any potential purchase of the office space.

This flagship mixed-use development features brand-new Grade A office buildings, prime retail and leisure facilities, 66 residential flats and a new public square.

The offices at Merchant Gate, designed by Leeds-based architects Carey Jones, are 1 Burgage Sq, 2 Burgage Square and Emerald House, which is fully let to HM Court Service.

The available space ranges from 4,000 sq ft to 27,000 sq ft.

English Cities Fund (ECf) is a joint venture between Muse Developments, Legal & General and the Homes & Communities Agency.

Eamon Fox, partner at Knight Frank in Leeds, specialising in office agency, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this very prestigious instruction by English Cities Fund, the owner of Merchant Gate, who has invested in the remarkable renaissance of Wakefield.

“Merchant Gate, and strategic schemes like it in the city, are changing people’s perceptions of Wakefield. The city, benefitting from substantial investment, a proud history and an excellent location, is no longer in the shadow of its larger neighbour Leeds.”

Mr Fox added: “This is a wonderful chance to move to the very best new office buildings in Wakefield. Rents are very competitive, while the facilities are first class. The offices are close to Wakefield Westgate Station, on the main Leeds-London line, whilst prime retail facilities at Merchant Gate will make the development ideal for leisure as well as working.

James Scott, of English Cities Fund also commented: “We have appointed the Leeds office of Knight Frank alongside the Leeds office of JLL to market the remaining space at Merchant Gate because we were very impressed with their enthusiasm and superb track record. Their experience and expertise will be invaluable as we seek to let the remaining office space in these flagship buildings.”