Employment Fears As Webhelp Invests In Flexible Working Model

The long-term tenant of a prominent Inverclyde office block has announced its intention to leave its Greenock base.

Holt Court at Arthur Street, set beside the A8 at Cartsburn, has been made available to let following Webhelp’s decision to vacate the property.

The building, which was originally built in 1994 as part of the Scottish Enterprise Investment Zone at Cartsburn, extends to 10,762 sq ft across three floors.

Webhelp, who has been located there since 1999 has now informed its owners Arranglen, the property arm of local businessmen Sandy and James Easdale, that it will not be renewing its lease.

The company has not announced any alternative accommodation plans, but the decision comes as a blow to Greenock, with fears for the future of its 200 strong workforce.

Reflecting on the news, owners Sandy and James Easdale said:

“Naturally we are disappointed to learn that Webhelp will not be renewing its lease at Holt Court and will come as a further economic blow to Greenock.

“Inverclyde’s unemployment rate is already behind the Scottish and UK average, and the loss of companies like Webhelp to Inverclyde will only see this increase over time.

“In reality, the move by businesses to flexible and home-working models is going to mean increased properties like Holt Court sitting available, with supply far outstripping demand.”

The property is being marketed by commercial property agents Bowman Rebecchi and Glasgow-based agency, Breck Sutherland.

Andrew Bowman, Director at Bowman Rebecchi said:

“While this news comes as a natural blow to the area, we are delighted to support our client with the search for new occupants.

“The Inverclyde office sub-market has been fairly static throughout the pandemic, but we still see a demand for smaller offices for growing companies.

“Depending on the interest received, subdivision could be a potential route here, similar to what we have done with the adjacent Victory Court.

“We welcome any interested parties to contact Bowman Rebecchi and look forward to marketing the site in the coming weeks.”

For more information on the property, click here.

This image is courtesy of The Greenock Telegraph.