A brand-new Costa drive-thru and Essar petrol station in Lea Gate, Preston, will shortly be open to customers following a successful redevelopment of the site.
Owner, Valley House Properties Ltd, identified the site for redevelopment in 2019 and appointed leading law firm Slater Heelis to act on their behalf to negotiate and complete the leases and oversee various other ancillary matters, including a complex refinance.
The experienced full-service law firm had to navigate the initial process throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, a unique and challenging experience for all involved that has proved fruitful as planning was secured for the redevelopment in 2021, and the lease disposals now completed.
Camilla Thornberry, Associate Solicitor in the Commercial Property Team at Slater Heelis, said: “When we initially received the instruction from Valley House Properties Ltd back in 2019 we were delighted, this kind of project is second nature to us and it’s always great to see these types of sites redeveloped and occupied with thriving businesses.
“Little did we know that in 2020 life would turn on its head for everyone. Navigating the process during the pandemic did come with its challenges but it was a great learning curve for all involved. Successfully securing Essar Oil (UK) Limited and Costa Limited as tenants was a huge milestone for this development and it was a pleasure to work with their respective legal teams to negotiate leases that all parties were happy with.”
The brand-new Essar petrol station occupies a 4,000 sq ft space, with Costa occupying a 1,800 sq ft space. It is thought that both businesses will benefit from the new Preston Western Distributor Road and will increase demand for fuel and service stops in the area.
Gavin Valentine, Director at Valley House Properties Ltd, added: “We’re delighted to have secured such high-profile tenants for the Lea Gate development and look forward to what we strongly hope will be successful businesses, in a great location.
“Also, a huge thank you to Camilla and the team at Slater Heelis for their professionalism. I have felt confident throughout knowing that this work was in their capable hands and I am very appreciative of all of the hard work they have put in since we first instructed them on this site in 2019.”
