Specialising in rail engineering, infrastructure and electrification, QTS has taken 3,040 sq ft across the 7th floor of the Grade II-listed space in the heart of Glasgow’s central business district. The deal was led by agents Knight Frank. QTS currently employs 600 people across nine UK locations, with key clients including the likes of Network Rail, Scottish Water and SPL Powerlines.

Topland, one of the UK’s largest privately owned investment groups, acquired 144 West George Street in 2018 and has since carried out a series of high-quality refurbishments to increase its amenity offering and breathe new life into the heritage building.

The 32,571 sq ft building has been upgraded to a modern open plan workplace with a focus on sustainability. New eco boilers have been installed alongside heat exchangers to improve efficiency, reduce gas usage, and save on running costs. A new basement providing a secure bike store has also been created alongside communal showers on the ground floor.

Topland has welcomed a variety of businesses to 144 West George Street over the past year including environmental consultancy firm Environmental Resources Management (ERM) and architectural practice Convery Prenty Shields. The two businesses have taken a combined 8,160 sq ft of workspace.

Alongside the refurbishment of 144 West George Street, Topland is transforming another Glasgow based workspace, 8 Nelson Mandela Place. This includes an overhaul of the reception and entrance areas, improved end of journey facilities and new look accommodation throughout the 5th floor. The refurb also includes a proposal to create a brand new panoramic balcony overlooking Glasgow city centre.

Steve Pope, group director of property and asset management at Topland, said: “It’s brilliant to see 144 West George Street fully let with such a diverse roster of businesses. The deals landed across the board reflect the transformation we’ve made in a previously unloved asset that will now deliver high quality spaces for our tenants.

“We remain proactive when it comes to acquiring and upgrading commercial and heritage spaces, and we look forward to bringing more grade A workspace to the UK’s innovative businesses.”

Sarah Hagen at Knight Frank, said: “QTS completes a hattrick of successful leasing activity at 144 West George Street over the past six months. As we navigate the post-pandemic world, it is evident that well located, quality accommodation with onsite amenities will continue to capture occupiers’ interest. We’re excited to continue working closely with Topland across its network of commercial assets across the UK.”

Knight Frank and Avison Young leased all the available accommodation at 144 West George Street.