Innes England is bringing to the market Derby's best known office scheme, Heritage Gate - the largest existing office building within the city centre.

The landmark complex was constructed in the early 1970's and comprises three buildings, Norman House, Saxon House and Celtic House. The adjacent Roman House which was part of the original development has been owned for many years by Derby City Council and is home to the local planning office.   

The complex is being marketed along with an adjoining portfolio of seven shops and offices fronting Friar Gate and in addition an adjacent cleared site of 1.44 acres fronting the inner ring road that at present provides additional off-site parking, but is identified within the Local Plan as a key mixed use regeneration opportunity and offers independent development potential.  

Nick Hosking, director at Derby-based agents Innes England which is selling the property alongside GVA on behalf of Aviva, launched the disposal at international property show MIPIM in March.

He said: "For the last two decades Heritage Gate has been without question the most successful multi-let office complex within the city. Year on year the scheme has performed well and that has been the result of a number of key contributing factors - the scheme offers good quality flexible accommodation in a range of sizes and crucially benefits from a very high on-site car parking ratio complemented by secure basement parking.  

"Friar Gate has historically been the city centre's key office and business location and, whilst the scheme benefits from all the attributes of being set within the Cathedral Quarter, it is easily accessible for occupiers and their clients, sitting in a prime location fronting the newly completed inner ring road."

"In bringing the scheme to the market we are offering an asset that has considerable potential for long term redevelopment coupled with multiple asset management opportunities that can deliver added value."

Commenting on Derby's wider office market, Nick added: "Derby's office market has bucked the trend over the last few years with take-up increasing year on year and good rental growth. Derby's balanced economy, which as we all know is based on high-technology engineering, has meant that the city has been well placed to weather the storm during the recession and with key local employers such as Rolls Royce and Bombardier performing well, the outlook for the local market is hugely positive.