Mace & Jones helps secure new £5m Bootle home for Territorial Army

Published: 28th August 2008

A leading law firm has helped clinch a deal to build a new £5m Territorial Army centre in partnership with supermarket giant Asda in Bootle.

Mace & Jones real estate partner Janice Weatherly led the deal acting on behalf of the North West of England and Isle of Man Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (NW RFCA). Mace & Jones advised on the development agreement between NW RFCA and the Asda Group. The deal involved Asda agreeing to support the construction of the new TA Centre and Joint Cadet Building, the first purpose-built facility of its kind for NW RFCA. In return, Asda is using the Strand Road site, previously occupied by the Territorial Army, to build one of its first eco-friendly stores, with construction currently underway for completion in November this year.

The official opening of the new two-storey TA Centre on Netherton Way in Bootle is planned for February 2009. Constructed by John Turner & Sons, the centre will be used by the Army Cadet Force and Air Training Corps and incorporates all anti-terrorism and Government building requirements.

Janice Weatherly, partner at Mace & Jones, said:

"The NW RFCA is a valued client of the firm and it is extremely pleased with its new premises. All parties pulled together to bring about an exceptional facility for the TA and cadets."

John Turner & Sons managing director John Clarke said: "The buildings were of traditional construction using steelwork for the main superstructure and the elevations being clad in a mixture of masonry and composite panel materials. The internal areas of the buildings were finished to a high standard which included a new bar to the function room."

NW RFCA Chief Executive, Colonel Gerry Wells-Cole, believes the centre will make a significant impact on the development of careers for young people within the local community. He said:

"We believe the facilities can only inspire young people to fulfill rewarding careers whether that is in the forces or elsewhere in the working world. The new Centre is part of the 156 (North West) Transport Regiment Royal Logistic Corps (Volunteers) and its job is to help provide them with operational capability. The centre also acts as both a first class base for two national youth organisations, but also a venue that can provide challenging, adventurous community activities."