The team led by Midlands Head of Commercial Property Jamie Gordon and including Senior Associates Antonia Birmingham and Richard Brookes ensured that from instruction to the exchange of contracts took less than two months. Exchange within such a tight timescale was made possible by Geldards’ experience in managing this type of transaction and their in-depth knowledge of the ng2 site.

The new high-tech office facility will neighbour Geldards’ Nottingham office and will be developed by Miller Birch Partnership with construction due to commence later this year, subject to final planning approval.

The new purpose built premises, due for completion at the end of 2010, will provide a state-of-the-art working environment for Speedo’s 170-strong Nottingham workforce currently based at offices on Ascot Road.

With 43,000 square feet set over three floors, the more spacious offices will provide a fitting location as the brand, which recently celebrated its 80th anniversary, builds on its success. The site will provide improved cutting-edge facilities for the development of new Speedo products at its dedicated global Aqualab Research and Development Centre, and act as the brand’s international base for visiting partners and Speedo sponsored athletes.

The central location will provide excellent transport links, plentiful parking and a stop on the route of the proposed tram extension to the west of the City, supporting the increased flow of UK and international customers to the purpose-built showroom at the site.

Featuring a full height glass atrium foyer and a striking zinc-clad wall bearing the well-recognised Speedo logo, the build design incorporates the latest environmental features. These include optimised use of natural light through solar control glazed windows; intelligent lighting with movement and daylight sensors , energy saving air source heat pump technology and borehole water for grey water systems.

Speedo has worked closely with the East Midlands Development Agency (emda) on the project for the new offices. emda are continuing to support the brand with funding for R&D and training, enabling the move to forge ahead despite the current economic climate.

Speedo President, David Robinson, said: “Speedo has a long history with the Nottingham area and we wanted to continue this connection. The quality of the new building along with its centrally located site will help us to attract and retain the highest calibre staff. It will also be a fitting new home for our R&D centre, Aqualab, which continues to ensure Speedo remains at the forefront of swim technology.

Peter Gadsby, Chairman of East Midlands Developer Miller Birch said: “I am delighted to welcome Speedo to ng2. As a world recognised brand, known for leading the field, Speedo reinforces the reputation of ng2 as the premier business location in Nottingham and the Midlands.

“Miller Birch has worked extremely hard with Speedo’s team to design a facility befitting its status as a Global Headquarters. I am confident we will go on to deliver yet another iconic building of which the city of Nottingham can be proud. “

Antonia Birmingham, Senior Associate at Geldards and lead adviser to Miller Birch on the Speedo deal, said: “The Geldards team are immensely proud to have advised on such a landmark development and welcome Speedo on to ng2.”