A CONTRACTOR has been appointed for a complete makeover of one of the best-known office blocks in Poole, Dorset, transforming it into a flagship building.

For many years Link House was the home of advertising publication Exchange & Mart before being acquired, with vacant possession, by Clark Estates in March 2007.

The Bournemouth-based developer has now appointed George & Harding as the contractor tasked with carrying out an extensive refurbishment of the landmark town centre building.

Work is due to start in earnest this month (January) with the completion date set for July.

P H Warr plc has been chosen to provide quantity surveying and health and safety services while Nettleship Sawyer and the Southampton office of CB Richard Ellis are retained as letting agents.

Link House comprises 35,512 sq ft (net internal area) on ground and four upper floors, with more than 120 designated car parking spaces. The building has commanding views over Poole and the nearby harbour.

The refurbishment work includes new air conditioning, lifts, access flooring, lighting and carpets together with further Disability Discrimination Act compliance upgrades.

Externally, the West Street building will be transformed to provide an ‘as new’ office block.

Peter Caunter, Property Investment Manager, Clark Estates, said: “This is a key development for Clark Estates and the acquisition last year demonstrated our confidence in the region’s office market.

“Our strategy is to hold the resulting investment long term so it was important that we were confident in the contractor’s ability to provide a quality build and service.

“George & Harding has built a strong reputation in the region and we look forward to working with them on this key project.”

Link House will be available to let in substantial parts.