Sweco strengthens presence in central Leeds

An architecture and engineering consultancy is expanding its presence in the heart of Leeds.

Sweco has taken 15,000sq ft at 1 Whitehall Riverside, occupying the entire seventh floor. 

The move will see more than 200 staff relocate from Chapel Allerton, where the company has operated for 25 years.

Bosses say the contemporary office space features an open-plan layout designed to encourage collaboration, with co-working areas, focus rooms and high-tech meeting facilities. 

Employees will also enjoy sweeping views across the city and the River Aire.

Max Joy, Sweco’s UK president, said: “Our move to No. 1 Whitehall Riverside is about more than a change of address – it’s about who we are and where we’re going.

“Being in the heart of Leeds brings us closer to our clients, partners, and peers, while giving our people a modern, collaborative space that reflects our ambition.

“This move embodies our purpose of transforming society together, creating the conditions for us to deliver projects that have a lasting, positive impact.

“With sustainable design features, strong transport links and a vibrant riverside location, we’re proud to be stepping into a new chapter that will help us grow, connect and continue shaping the future of our communities.

“I look forward to welcoming colleagues and clients to our new home in Spring 2026.”

Brokered by Knight Frank, the deal follows a similar expansion by civil engineering company JN Bentley, part of the Mott MacDonald Group, which doubled its footprint at 1 Whitehall Riverside earlier this year.

The building now hosts teams from JN Bentley, Mott MacDonald and JBA Consulting, providing a hub for design-and-build businesses under Mott MacDonald Bentley and JBA Bentley.

Eamon Fox, head of the Leeds office of global property consultancy Knight Frank, who advised Sweco, added: “This is a very significant deal and a resounding endorsement of 1 Whitehall Riverside.

“We are delighted to welcome a company as successful as Sweco to Leeds city centre and the influx of more than 200 staff will be a massive boost to the city’s economy.

“Two important lettings within a couple of months underline the pulling power of 1 Whitehall Riverside, which is owned by NFU Mutual.

“Both flourishing companies have made moves which can significantly contribute to their business success by enhancing employee morale, promoting collaboration, improving client perception, and facilitating future growth.

“We wish both JN Bentley and Sweco further success going forward.”

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