THE city’s landmark Northgate development has secured its first office tenant.

Sovereign Corporate & Trustee Services Ltd (SCATS) has signed up for 1,200 sq ft at Coachworks Arcade.

Sovereign, which is relocating from Bromborough, is one of the largest independent corporate and trust providers with 26 offices globally.

Commercial property consultancy Legat Owen secured the deal on behalf of Cheshire West and Chester Council with RivingtonHark acting as development and leasing managers.

About 10,000 sq ft of office space is available across four office suites above Coachworks Arcade.

The arcade itself is the principal covered walkway linking Northgate Street with Exchange Square.

The original 1914 terracotta façade of a car and coach works has been restored as part of the development.

Stuart Stobie, SCATS managing director, said: “For a business like ourselves, working with a range of corporate clients and high net worth individuals, it’s really important to work in a setting that reflects the bespoke, high-quality service we provide, and the Coachworks Arcade feels a fitting environment.”

Will Sadler, director of office agency at Legat Owen, said: “Northgate is a hugely important project for Chester, and takes the city forward in so many ways.

"The workspace component is an important part of that, and we’re delighted to welcome the first tenant to Coachworks Arcade.”

Within the Northgate scheme, the first elements are now open  including the new 36,000 sq ft Chester Market, 800-space New Market Parking and Zizzi restaurant alongside the Cosy Club restaurant, which opened in the summer. 

Further food and beverage units and a new 6-screen cinema are set to open in the new year.