Independent sector schools group, Minerva Education, will lease a landmark new site near Green Park which will boost the leading education group’s London portfolio.
Adding to its existing group of five independent schools, Minerva has agreed a 30-year lease term on 106 Piccadilly, a 23,918 sq. ft. Grade I listed building, opposite Green Park. Subject to planning, the site – currently Limkokwing University – will now be sympathetically restored to become a much-needed new independent senior school for London.
With launch anticipated in September 2017, the coeducational school will cater for up to 420 students aged 11 to 16. This will provide a seamless secondary progression for students across Minerva’s current preparatory schools, as well as from within wider central London and overseas.
Shoosmiths real estate partner, Matthew Walker and solicitor Sophie Boswell advised on the acquisition.
Tommy MacDonald-Milner, CEO at Minerva Education, said: “Shoosmiths provided us with a seamless advice in negotiating the leasing aspects for 106 Piccadilly – a fantastic property right in the very heart of London.
“There is a gap in the market for a much-needed co-educational and academically non-selective senior school in the capital and there is no doubt this is the perfect location. It will make a convenient, accessible and stunning addition to our portfolio.”
Matthew Walker, real estate partner at Shoosmiths, added: “London is in need of more high quality co-educational independent schools and we wish Minerva every success with this important endeavour.”
