Pre-let of industrial unit

Artisan (UK) PLC 08 May 2007 8 May 2007 Artisan (UK) plc Major pre-let Artisan (UK) plc ('Artisan' or 'the Group'), the residential house builder and commercial business park developer announces progress in developing its property activities with the pre-let of a unit at its Colmworth Business Park. The Board has announced separately today its strategy of retaining selected properties from its development portfolio as investment properties and the financial implications arising. Artisan's Chief Executive, Chris Musselle, commented: 'Artisan is very pleased to announce that a major forward let of a 36,600 ft2 industrial unit has been secured. The occupier is Black Teknigas Limited a subsidiary of Watts Industries Europe BV, both companies to be joint lessees.' The agreement to lease is in respect of a bespoke unit at Colmworth Business Park, St Neots, due for build completion early 2008. There is provision for the development of an extension to this unit of 18,500 ft2 at the tenant's option over the next 5 years. The Board are satisfied that this opportunity fulfils our criteria for retention as an investment property unit and this unit will be retained by the Group as its first investment property. For Artisan, the success in securing this agreement effectively concludes the Colmworth Business Park, with office development continuing at the adjacent Fenice Court. Director of Black Teknigas, Dave Martin said: 'Following our company's acquisition by Watts Industries last year, growth and future prospects are exciting and employment is increasing. Black Teknigas is delighted that agreement has been reached with Artisan to build a new, bespoke factory for our rapidly expanding business. St Neots has proved an excellent area for employment and recruitment and the company has built up a loyal and stable workforce over the last eighteen years. Artisan was chosen for their excellent, well developed site at Colmworth Business Park and their strong regional reputation.' Artisan (UK) plc Chris Musselle Chief Executive 01480 436666 email@artisan-plc.co.uk Brewin Dolphin Securities Limited Nominated advisers 0121 236 7000 Ifor Williams Bankside Consultants Financial PR advisers 020 7367 8888 Simon Rothschild 07703 167065 Louise Mason Company website: www.artisan-plc.co.uk www.artisandevelopments.co.uk This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
UK 100