Legat Owen: construction surge lifts trade counter interest

The Chester-based agent has reported 39,900 sq ft of lettings in three separate deals across Cheshire and North Wales as the recovery drives spending on building materials and tools.

In Nantwich, trade tool supplier Screwfix has taken a 5,000 sq ft unit at Barony Employment Park. Legat Owen advised the landlord, PBS Property, which undertook an extensive refurbishment prior to Screwfix's occupation. Colliers International acted on behalf of Screwfix.

In Bromborough, kitchen and joinery product supplier Howden Joinery took an 18,000 sq ft unit in Croft Business Park. The property was sold by Hurstwood Group. Montagu Evans acted on behalf of Howden; Legat Owen was joint letting agent with Knight Frank.

Howden Joinery has also completed a lease on a 16,900 sq ft unit on Parc Bryn Cefni, Anglesey. The unit was sold at auction and the Legat Owen team provided advice on the acquisition of the unit, with terms agreed with Howden for the letting shortly after.

Mark Diaper, senior surveyor in the industrial team at Legat Owen, said: "The recovery in the wider construction industry is driving demand from the trade counter sector. We have a number of other trade counter deals in solicitors' hands and anticipate more completions shortly."