Arden University is moving into three floors at the building, taking it to full occupancy
The Spark office at Newcastle Helix(Image: Avison Young)
A prime Newcastle office will be at full occupancy this year after a private university struck a deal to take over all of its remaining space.
Arden University, which has its head office in Coventry, has agreed a deal with property agents to move into 27,095 sq ft on the ground, first, second and third floors in early spring this year.
Based in the Helix development, The Spark forms part of a 24-acre mixed-use innovation hub which has been delivered through a partnership between Newcastle City Council, Legal & General and Newcastle University. The science and business park brings together office, residential and scientific uses, creating an internationally recognised cluster for research, education and business.
The Spark is already home to businesses including the region’s largest law firm Womble Bond Dickinson and National Audit Office (NAO). The agreement was struck by real estate advisor Savills, together with joint agents Avison Young, on behalf of landlord Legal & General.
Greg Davison at Savills, joint letting agents for Legal & General, said the introduction of Arden University to Newcastle Helix builds on the growing cluster and introduces a new education offer to the city, while also underlining the strong demand for best-in-class office accommodation in Newcastle city centre.
He said: “Completing the final letting at The Spark is a fantastic result and demonstrates the depth of occupier demand for high-quality workspace at Newcastle Helix. Securing Arden University as the final occupier is a fitting conclusion to the successful leasing of this flagship building.”
Arden University started life in 1990 as part of moves to give all people equal opportunities for higher education. It began as the chosen online delivery partner for traditional universities, and in 2014 earned taught-degree awarding powers, and now awards its own degrees.
In 2015 it officially became Arden University, one of a handful of specialist online learning universities to launch in the last 50 years, and now provides flexible online and blended learning degree courses. Arden University was advised by James Andrew International.
Carl Lygo, CEO and vice chancellor at Arden University, said: “We’re excited to launch our new campus in Newcastle. This opening reflects an exciting next step in the expansion plans of our fast-growing university, providing a modern, welcoming space for those looking to develop the skills they need to advance their careers in the city.
“Newcastle is a real hotbed for talent, and we look forward to welcoming students from across the city and wider region into our new campus.”