Worcester Boulevard Icon Up for Lease

Media release for immediate use: 19 February 2008

Worcester Boulevard Icon Up for Lease

A landmark in the heart of Christchurch’s tourist precinct is up for lease for only the second time since it was built in 1996.

Simes is calling for expressions of interest for leasing the modern, high-profile building on the corner of Montreal Street and Worcester Boulevard.

“This is a very rare commercial opportunity to lease space in such a premium location. Cowlishaw Mews houses a fine dining restaurant, commercial offices and apartments. It was designed by Warren and Mahoney and is a fine example of modern architecture that will stand the test of time,” says Peter Cook of Simes.

Rob Logie and Peter Cook are jointly marketing the property and say leasing the building will happen in two stages.

“The first stage is calling for expressions of interest. There has only been one tenant until now, so we are keen to draw out people who have an interest in the building, then we will invite selected parties to put forward a lease proposal, so they tell us what they want to use the space for. This way people can also tell us if they want to lease all or part of the building,” says Rob Logie.

The building is ideally situated adjacent to the Arts Centre and opposite the Art Gallery.

“You couldn’t wish for a better location. It’s right in the middle of the tourist route and is an easy walk to the CBD,” says Peter Cook.

”It’s also an area getting a lot of attention at the moment. New development is planned on neighbouring sites, including the new Council Chambers, the 12-storey Club Tower office building and a hotel development on the old Chung Wah site. Leasing this building would be a great investment in an area of growth and upgrading.”

The ground and first floor could be used for a variety of options. Rob Logie says it could be used for a restaurant, commercial offices or apartments. On-site parking is also available.

Rob Logie says Christchurch people know, and tourists photograph, the building’s easily recognisable architectural feature.

“The dome on the top of the building is an exact replica of the Brunelleschi dome on Florence cathedral. It doesn’t get much more special than that.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media