Allied Surveyors Scotland has confirmed the letting of 2,145 sq ft of business space to Heavy Sound CIC at The Cockenzie Hub in Cockenzie and Port Seton.
The rapidly expanding social enterprise is relocating to the East Lothian coastal village from its current base in Tranent and have committed to a 3-year term at an undisclosed rent.
The building, which dates back to 1865 and was originally Cockenzie Primary School, is now 75% occupied with just 5 suites remaining of varying sizes available at an all-inclusive rent.
It was acquired in October 2019 by Allied Surveyors on behalf of East Lothian-based Moscar LLP.
“This is a significant letting for our client and underlines the demand for accommodation from local companies seeking affordable business space in East Lothian,” said Allied Surveyor’s director of commercial agency (east) Iain Mercer.
Heavy Sound uses alternative forms of music, such as rap and hip-hop, art and sports to work with young people from a variety of backgrounds.
Commenting on the move, Heavy Sound CEO, Jordan Butler, said: “For the last 5 years we have been based in Tranent and as a growing organisation have found it difficult to find the right space in East Lothian to make a longer-term move. The Cockenzie Hub is perfect for us, we will be able to provide a full range of services as well as developing new programmes which will service Cockenzie and the wider community.”
Angie, managing director of Moscar LLP, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Jordan and his energetic team have joined our strong team of enterprises, in what is a truly wonderful building and part of a special local community.
From the moment we met Jordan and learned about his incredible work with Heavy Sound CIC, we were keen to engage with him and his team. From taking over the centre last October we have, with Allied’s help, turned the building around from 25% to now 75% occupancy, developed a positive vibe and built a true hub in the Cockenzie & Port Seton area with great people in the building.”
And, in these new times of social distancing, the owners believe The Cockenzie Hub is suitably placed to satisfy the increased demand from local businesses keen to work remotely.
“With a long-term and increasing need for people to avoid travel on busy commuter routes, we are excited by the prospect of finding positively minded tenants for the few remaining spaces. and building a great hub for local people for many years to come,” added Angie.