European engineering, environment and design consultancy Sweco has taken 15,000 sq ft of office space – the entire seventh floor – at 1 Whitehall Riverside in Leeds.
The company is relocating with more than 200 staff from Chapel Allerton, where it has been for 25 years.
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.”
The letting comes hard on the heels of civil engineering company JN Bentley doubling its office space at 1 Whitehall Riverside. Part of the Mott MacDonald Group, JN Bentley has taken over the whole of the 17,124 sq ft fifth floor.
The Skipton-based company originally moved its Leeds city centre operations from Bank House to 1 Whitehall Riverside in October 2023. The building is now home to employees from JN Bentley and colleagues from Mott MacDonald and JBA Consulting working within the company’s design-and-build businesses – Mott MacDonald Bentley (MMB) and JBA Bentley.
Eamon Fox, head of the Leeds office of property consultancy Knight Frank, who advised Sweco, said: “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.”
