Unique investment opportunity – Southampton’s oldest storehouse
1 April 2012
PLEASE NOTE: the deadline for expressions of interest has now passed and bids are currently being reviewed (Friday 3rd June 2011).
Southampton City Council and Capita Symonds have launched the marketing of The Wool House in Town Quay, Southampton.
The council is seeking expressions of interest from investors and developers for the commercial leasing of The Wool House (for a minimum of 20 years on terms to be agreed).
This significant Grade I listed building (currently housing the Maritime Museum) will be vacant from October 2011 following the relocation of the maritime exhibitions to Tudor House and Garden and the new Sea City visitor attraction.
The 4,419ft2 property is a significant building in Southampton’s heritage – constructed in the 14th century by Cistercian Monks as a storehouse for wool to be exported to Europe. It is the only surviving freestanding mediaeval warehouse in Southampton.
The interior is dominated by a 14th Century arched collar braced roof of Spanish chestnut. The Wool House was altered in the 18th century and was used to house French prisoners of war during the Napoleonic Wars, some of whose names can been seen carved on the beams of the roof.
This building offers an amazing range of features which makes this a truly unique opportunity. Southampton City Council is seeking a tenant which will conserve the building whilst bringing the building back into commercial life of the city.
The council's Planning and Heritage Teams consider the following range of uses appropriate for the building, subject to obtaining all necessary consents; English Heritage support this view.
A2 - Professional and financial services
A3 - Restaurants and cafes
A4 - Public Houses and bars
B1(a) - Offices
D1 - Art gallery, cultural centre or exhibition centre
The accommodation comprises:
Ground Floor – 198 sq m (2,127 sq ft)
First Floor – 213 sq m (2,292 sq ft)
Total: 411 sq m (4,419 sq ft) net internal area approximately
Please note: the above measurements were taken whilst the building was operational and hosting a number of exhibits.
In accordance with Southampton City Council’s Corporate Property Standards for land disposals, expressions of interest are invited by Friday 13 May 2011.
Image shows:The Wool House
Image copyright: Southampton City Council
For further information or to arrange a viewing (which is strictly by appointment only):
Contact: Mrs Ali Mew, Property Services, Capita Symonds, Third floor, One Guildhall Square, Above Bar Street, Southampton. SO14 7FP.
Tel: 023 8083 3425
Email:ali.mew@capita.co.uk
All planning enquiries should be addressed to:
Contact: Bryony Giles, Planning Officer
Tel: 023 8083 2603
Email:bryony.giles@southampton.gov.uk
