Edinburgh ''expensive for commercial property'' commercial mortgages

03 May 2007

Edinburgh''s commercial property market could prove an expensive option for businesses looking for premises in Scotland but the market is not beyond the reach of many firms, according to some market commentators.

A new study from Ryden highlights Edinburgh as having little inward investment from other parts of the country, due largely to preconceptions that the city''s commercial property market is expensive. Mark Robertson of Ryden states that this is not necessarily the case, arguing that businesses could do well to consider renting in Edinburgh or opting for commercial mortgages.

"There is an impression that Edinburgh is expensive," he told the Scotsman. "However, the commercial property market isn''t necessarily any more expensive than other locations.

"Rental wise, places like Glasgow have caught up with Edinburgh," he added.

Mr Robertson states that staff costs can be high for businesses relocating to Edinburgh but maintains that commercial property shortages in London might still entice businesses north, in search of high grade office space.

The Scotsman reports that Edinburgh has seen a boost in office growth of late, but Glasgow has proven more buoyant over the past year.