News

Landmark letting boosts Reading

In one of the biggest deals in 2023 the Ministry of Justice has signed on two floors at Abbey Gardens, a landmark town centre office. The transaction, which is one of the largest in Reading this year was negotiated on behalf of Palm Capital by property consultancy Vail Williams
October 11, 2023
Landmark letting boosts Reading
The Ministry of Justice has signed on two floors at Abbey Gardens, Reading, a landmark town centre office.

The transaction, which is one of the largest in the town this year was negotiated on behalf of Palm Capital by property consultancy Vail Williams.

Abbey Gardens, known for its modern infrastructure and central prime location, offers state-of-the-art facilities and amenities that align perfectly with the Ministry’s mission to serve the public with excellence.

The newly leased space is expected to support the Ministry of Justice in delivering its vital services efficiently and effectively.

The two floors at Abbey Gardens have been refurbished to provide an up to date working environment for its dedicated staff, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.

The location at Abbey Gardens provides excellent accessibility, ensuring that Ministry staff and visitors have easy access to transportation links, including Reading’s mainline railway station and major road networks.

Abbey Gardens has a dedicated commitment to sustainability. Achieving BREEAM Very Good Certification and EPC B the property takes environmental responsibility seriously, aligning with the Ministry’s dedication to green initiatives and responsible resource management.

Located at the heart of the historic and bustling Abbey Quarter, staff are well placed to enjoy the numerous amenities on the Kings Road. Within only a three-minute walk are retail and leisure offerings such as Lincoln Coffee shop, Buzz Gym, Honest Burger, the Botanist and the Coconut Tree restaurant opposite.

The Ministry of Justice will be well positioned to engage actively with the local community in Reading, further strengthening its bonds and commitment to the town.

Guy Parkes, Reading-based Partner at Vail Williams, said: “The building has recently benefited from an upgrade, adding collaboration space such as a new business lounge, yoga studio and outside meeting and event space as well as updated reception facility.

“This keeps pace with fresh demands to bring people back together in an enhanced and vibrant workplace environment.

“The Ministry of Justice choosing Abbey Gardens is testament to the resilience of well-managed office buildings with great sustainability credentials that have benefitted from substantial investment.”

Reading town centre and the wider conurbation have experienced a significant growth in both population over the past decade.

The town is ranked in the UK’s top five towns and cities for economic growth and has a significant retention of students and young professionals with high levels of skilled employment, making it an attractive investment both in terms of investor and rental demand.

The tenant, Ministry of Justice, was advised by Cushman & Wakefield and the landlord, Palm Capital, was advised by Vail Williams and Knight Frank.