Altrincham 26 picked to host Girlguiding distribution hub
The Guide Association has signed a 20-year lease with Greater Manchester Property Venture Fund for the 26,000 sq ft shed.
A relocation will see the Girl Guides vacate its Atlantic Street unit and move into the larger distribution hub off George Richards Way, to the north east of Altrincham’s town centre.
Knight Frank acted on the tenant’s behalf. Joint agents B8 Real Estate and CBRE worked on behalf of the GMPVF to secure the deal.
GMPVF is the property development arm of Greater Manchester Pension Fund.
The 3.4-acre plot will house The Guide Association’s main UK distribution centre, storing equipment, badges, banners, uniforms, and gifts for Girl Guides.
Altrincham 26 was designed by AEW Architects and developed by Quorum, before it was acquired by GMPVF in 2022.
Around 2,200 sq ft of the 26,000 sq ft floorspace is for office use.
The site offers 27 car parking spaces and two drive-in bays.
Will Kenyon, director at B8 Real Estate, said the deal demonstrates the “depth of occupier demand” for such strategically located units.
Jonathan Stanlake, director at CBRE, added that the letting shows GMPVF’s commitment to developing high-quality property and driving economic growth.
The unit was developed alongside neighbouring Altrincham 38, a larger 38,000 sq ft shed, which has yet to be occupied.
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Both units boast ratings of EPC A and BREEAM Very Good, which was a critical part of The Guide Association’s decision-making.
Robert Taylor, head of property for The Guide Association, said: “This move is a significant step in our commitment to operational excellence and environmental responsibility.
“The unit’s strong green credentials align perfectly with our sustainability goals.
“This modern, efficient space will not only enhance our operational capabilities but also provide a first-class working environment for our team, reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future for our business and the wider community.”
Good luck to all staff new and old on the move to the new building. I remember the good old days working at the unit at Atlantic Street.
By Mary Foley