Legal & General (L&G) has let 55,167 sq ft of office space across three floors of the Faber building in Sunderland city centre to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
The DWP is expected to relocate its team from their current office at Wear View House into their new home at Riverside Sunderland from April next year. Faber’s sister building, Maker, which is located next door, was let to online food order and delivery platform Just Eat, last year.
Maker and Faber were designed by North East architects Ryder and development manager Landid oversaw the design and construction of the buildings on behalf of L&G.
Mike Coplowe, head of commercial development and regeneration, asset management, at L&G, said: “DWP’s move to the Faber office in Sunderland, alongside their recent move into our West Bar office in Sheffield, reflects the increasing importance of regional centres in supporting jobs and economic activity. Our multi-million investment in Sunderland is part of that broader commitment, backing the North East’s role in driving sustainable growth by attracting major employers, supporting high quality development, and helping to create long-term opportunities for local communities and businesses across the region.”
James Jackson, cabinet member for business, housing and regeneration at Sunderland City Council, added: “DWP’s move to Faber demonstrates clearly that the high quality office environments we’re creating at Riverside Sunderland are a huge draw for businesses seeking grade A workspace at the heart of this transforming part of the city. A well-populated city centre, with housing and workspace drawing people in by day and night, will provide a boost to surrounding businesses, which in turn makes it a more attractive place for new investment, so developments like this are an important step forward in realising our vision.”
James Silver, managing director of Landid, said: “We’re delighted to welcome DWP to Faber. This is a significant commitment that will sustain employment in the heart of Sunderland. Maker and Faber occupy a prime position, with incredible views over the river and out to sea, and fantastic places to enjoy right on the doorstep – from bars and restaurants to riverside parkland. It’s unsurprising that they’re proving attractive to occupiers.”
Knight Frank and Savills are joint letting agents at the scheme.
