Energy giant finds new home at Aurora

Energy giant SSE has become the latest tenant to sign for Foma Real Estate and HFD Property’s Aurora Building in Glasgow. The firm has taken 62,000 sq ft in the 175,000 sq ft development at 120 Bothwell Street, in one of Scotland’s largest lettings this year. SSE has agreed a 10-year lease on the space, paying rent of £38 per sq ft. The company is currently based at One Waterloo Street in Glasgow. It expect to move into the new space at the end of 2025. The deal comes hot on the heels of a 26,250 sq ft letting to PwC, which has agreed to take two floors on a 15-year lease. Engineering firm Arcadis is also a tenant in the building with just over 7,000 sq ft on a 10-year lease. Aurora, which is now 73% let, is net zero in operation, has an EPC of A+, a BREEAM Excellent rating and has managed to reduce its carbon emissions by 77.7%, compared with an equivalent new-build property. David Tate, director of property at SSE, said: “SSE continues to invest billions into the net zero transition and to support this expansion we have decided to enter into this lease at Aurora, which is conveniently located and only a few minutes’ walk from One Waterloo Street. “Now that the lease has been agreed, work is progressing on developing a detailed project plan to ensure the new building fully meets the needs of those moving to it.” Ben Dickins, head of asset management (UK) at Forma Real Estate Fund, added: “Sustainability is the core of SSE’s business and it says a great deal about the building’s credentials that the company has chosen Aurora as its new Glasgow base. “Aurora offers the ideal combination of market-leading green features and amenities, combined with an accessible city centre location. With practical completion achieved and a strong level of interest in the remaining space, we hope to announce more deals before the end of the year.” CBRE advised Forma; MC2 acted for SSE.