Arden University Secures Final Space at The Spark Office in Newcastle
A prime office building in Newcastle will reach full occupancy this year after a private university finalized a deal to take over all remaining available space. Arden University, headquartered in Coventry, has agreed to lease 27,095 square feet across the ground, first, second, and third floors of The Spark, with the move scheduled for early spring.
Strategic Location at Newcastle Helix Innovation Hub
Located within the Helix development, The Spark is part of a 24-acre mixed-use innovation hub delivered through a partnership between Newcastle City Council, Legal & General, and Newcastle University. This science and business park integrates office, residential, and scientific facilities, establishing an internationally recognized cluster for research, education, and business activities.
The Spark already hosts prominent tenants such as Womble Bond Dickinson, the region's largest law firm, and the National Audit Office (NAO). The leasing agreement was negotiated by real estate advisor Savills, in collaboration with joint agents Avison Young, acting on behalf of landlord Legal & General.
Boosting Newcastle's Educational and Commercial Landscape
Greg Davison at Savills, joint letting agent for Legal & General, emphasized that Arden University's entry into Newcastle Helix enhances the growing cluster and introduces a new educational offering to the city. He noted that this move underscores the strong demand for top-tier office accommodations in Newcastle city centre.
Davison stated: "Completing the final letting at The Spark is a fantastic result and demonstrates the depth of occupier demand for high-quality workspace at Newcastle Helix. Securing Arden University as the final occupier is a fitting conclusion to the successful leasing of this flagship building."
Arden University's Evolution and Expansion
Arden University originated in 1990 as part of initiatives to provide equal higher education opportunities. Initially serving as an online delivery partner for traditional universities, it gained taught-degree awarding powers in 2014 and now confers its own degrees. In 2015, it officially became Arden University, one of the few specialist online learning institutions launched in the past five decades, offering flexible online and blended learning degree courses. James Andrew International advised Arden University on this transaction.
Carl Lygo, CEO and vice chancellor at Arden University, expressed enthusiasm: "We're excited to launch our new campus in Newcastle. This opening reflects an exciting next step in the expansion plans of our fast-growing university, providing a modern, welcoming space for those looking to develop the skills they need to advance their careers in the city. Newcastle is a real hotbed for talent, and we look forward to welcoming students from across the city and wider region into our new campus."
