Findings from our Q2 2013 Leeds Office Market Pulse confirm that, after bumper take-up in the first half of the year, grade A stock is down to 226,000 sq ft - just one year’s supply and crucially no grade A space with a floorplate over 35,000 sq ft that is currently available.

Cautious optimism over economic prospects

Adam Varley, Head of Office Agency in Leeds, said: “Combined city centre and out of town take-up in the first half of 2013 was over 633,000 sq ft, up 48% on the same period last year. This is really good news for Leeds and, when viewed with the positive UK growth figures, suggests the future is bright.

“But we need to be very careful.  The city cannot afford to get into a position where it cannot meet the needs of growing existing organisations or new businesses looking to move to the city. We need more grade A space or the city could stagnate in 2014.” 

Higher rents may prompt return of speculative development

The report also shows that lack of grade A space is driving up rents in key locations which may lead to a return to speculative development.

Varley added: “Out of town rents rose to £16.50 per sq ft in the last quarter. This was in direct response to an undersupply of grade A, large floor plate buildings.”

View the full Q2 2013 Leeds Office Market Pulse.