Iconic Retail Space on Western Road, Brighton Now Available for Rent at £300,000 per Year

Historic Retail Space on Western Road, Brighton: A Rare Opportunity

Brighton, known for its vibrant culture and rich history, is currently offering a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and businesses. A historic retail space located at 157-161 Western Road is now available to rent for an annual fee of £300,000. This prominent site has a storied past that reflects both the architectural charm and commercial evolution of the area.

A Glimpse into History

Originally constructed in 1928, the building is a stunning example of Classical Revival architecture. It first opened its doors as a Boots department store, which included a post office and café—features that were groundbreaking at the time. For decades, Boots was a cornerstone of the shopping experience on Western Road, remaining in the location until the late 1970s.

Following Boots’ departure, the space was divided into three units. In 1982, Argos and McDonald’s moved in, with McDonald’s continuing to thrive at this site to this day. Over the years, the units have seen various tenants, including DIY chain Fads and a Virgin record shop, which left in 1998. Argos eventually merged with one of the units, making it a well-known retail spot until it closed its doors in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Architectural Significance

Property agents Newlands Property have highlighted the building’s considerable attributes, noting its prominent façades on three sides and its substantial layout spanning basement, ground, first, and second floors. They describe it as suitable for diverse uses, from retail to leisure, making it a versatile option for prospective tenants.

The building was added to the council’s Local List of Heritage Assets in 2015, emphasizing its importance in the context of Brighton’s social and economic history. According to the Brighton and Hove City Council, it is illustrative of the physical development that occurred during the inter-war period in the city, highlighting the rise of the department store culture. Its architectural features, such as the Ionic colonnade and central pediment, contribute significantly to the street scene of Western Road.

An Unmissable Opportunity

As Brighton continues to evolve, this available retail space represents not just a prime location in a bustling commercial district but also a piece of the city’s history. With a rich backdrop of social and architectural importance, it provides businesses with the chance to set up shop in a well-trafficked area, tapping into Brighton’s diverse and dynamic customer base.

For anyone interested in seizing this rare opportunity, now is the time to act. The space not only offers the chance to be part of Brighton’s vibrant retail landscape but also to engage with its storied past. The future of this iconic location awaits its next chapter—could you be the one to write it?

Looking Ahead

As businesses gradually adapt to the post-pandemic landscape, finding a well-established location that combines history with modern opportunity is paramount. The rental of this historic property on Western Road stands to not just revive a storied space but also to contribute to the ongoing narrative of Brighton as a hub of culture and commerce.

Are you interested in being part of Brighton’s history? Contact Newlands Property for more information on this exciting opportunity!