With 8 surveyors, collectively providing over 150 years’ experience, Roche offer unrivalled in-depth knowledge of the commercial property market.
Partner
Partner
Partner
Partner - Building Surveyor
Consultant
Senior Building Surveyor
Senior Surveyor
Agency Surveyor
Graduate Commercial Surveyor
Property Management Administrator
Sam is the Managing Partner and has been with Roche since 2003. He works across occupational agency, investment and development and is a RICS Registered Valuer.
He prides himself on providing honest, straightforward advice and having worked in the commercial market for over 20 years in Norwich, he has a strong track record with sound market knowledge and an understanding of the drivers affecting the local economy.
Career highlights include acting for a private investor in the sale of a £15 million office portfolio and working on the development of Briar Park, a multi-use business park, with car sales, trade counter and traditional business uses.
Sam works for a number of major landowners and funds including: Columbia Threadneedle, Chancerygate, Kames, Anglian Windows and Tesco. Local investors and developers include: Dencora, Peter Colby Commercial and Tilia.
Outside of work Sam likes sailing on the Norfolk coast and competing in ultra-running and triathlon events – having completed the Marathon Des Sables.
M: 07796 262472
T: 01603 756333
Services:
Agency (Retail & Leisure)
Lease Advisory
Adrian is a Partner in the firm and responsible for the retail and leisure departments which are branded under “Roche Retail”. The retail Department has won the EGi most active retail and leisure agent for East Anglia for 8 years and was recently awarded No.1 retail letting agent in East Anglia by Trevor Wood Associates.
Adrian is an expert in shopping centre, high street and out of town retail leasing, professional work, investment agency and active asset enhancement/management. He has worked on many regeneration projects including Anglia Square in Norwich and Friary Street in Guildford that have both focussed on turning outdated real estate into assets for the future.
Adrian enjoys advising on strategic asset enhancement by maximising client income not just for the short term but by providing a stable income flow for the future.
Current clients include: Columbia Threadneedle, Aviva, Aberdeen Standard, Ellandi, Legal and General, Waypoint, Infra Red and Warren James.
Prior to joining Roche in 2004 Adrian worked at Cushman & Wakefield (Healey & Baker) for 20 years where he was the Partner responsible for the South of England retail & leisure team, as well as the Netherlands, where he was based for 7 years as Head of Retail.
A keen cyclist in his spare time, Adrian rode from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 2012 and 2018.
M: 07880 975250
T: 01603 756334
Services:
Agency (Retail & Leisure)
Agency (Office & Industrial)
Lease Advisory
Valuation & Professional Services
Graham is a Partner at Roche and has over 15 years’ experience in dealing with commercial property. Graham splits his time between general commercial agency across the office, industrial, retail and leisure sectors and the firm’s lease advisory department undertaking rent reviews, lease renewals and general lease consultancy work. He is also an RICS registered valuer and carries out valuations for a wide range of lenders and clients.
Graham enjoys a diverse role advising both landlords and tenants/occupiers and in particular likes helping clients restructure their property holdings to suit their requirements. Career highlights include acting for the landlords in the letting of a 40,000 sq ft grade A office building in Norwich prior to the landlord incurring any void costs and which was the largest office letting in the city for a decade. Current projects include assisting two property companies improve their industrial estate portfolio assets values by restructuring the lease profiles and acting for a national pub company in regional freehold pub disposals.
Current clients include: Ei Group/Stonegate, East of England Co-op, Lothbury Investment Management, Mileway, Canmoor, Breckland Council and Stenprop.
Outside of work Graham enjoys keeping fit by running and swimming and is a (very) keen golfer.
M: 07496 164609
T: 01603 756338
Services:
Building Consultancy
David is a Partner at Roche and heads the Project and Building Consultancy department. David has more than 14 years’ experience in dealing with a broad range of commercial property instructions.
He has worked for clients ranging from major international property funds, pension investors and blue-chip companies to single investors and local authorities. Clients have included M&G, Ministry of Justice, NHS and local school academy trusts.
David has considerable experience in all areas of commercial property building surveying, specialising in dilapidations, refurbishment of commercial property and due diligence surveys. Notable instructions include settling a £700,000 office dilapidations claim against a multi-national occupier, project managing a £2m refurbishment of a manufacturing plant and an acquisition survey of a Grade II Listed local landmark building.
Additionally, David supports the RICS as a trained assessor for the Assessment of Professional Competence examination.
Outside of work David is kept busy with a young family but finds time to be a Norwich City Football Club season ticket holder and go on (steady) lunchtime runs
M: 07469 392530
T: 01603 756335
James Allen joined in 1989 and has over 35 years’ experience working in commercial property. Having been a Partner for many years, including a period as Senior Partner, James became a consultant in 2024.
James deals with agency transactions, principally in the office, industrial and distribution sectors, including advising on new developments, investments and company relocations. He has handled major disposals for clients including Jewson, BT and Associated British Ports and has dealt with many of Norwich’s office buildings and industrial estates. He has advised firms such as Howes Percival and Savills on office relocations.
James has been involved in the 300-acre Broadland Business Park, Norwich’s leading business development, since 1998 when it was a greenfield site. Initially providing development advice to guide the plans for the scheme, James has played a part in virtually all the subsequent transactions. The Park is still expanding and now boasts approximately one million square feet of floorspace which house over 4,000 employees.
In recent years, James has arranged the sale of the 67-acre North Denes Airfield at Great Yarmouth and acted for Gresham’s School in its acquisition of Holt Hall.
Outside work, having previously played hockey, squash and football, James takes a keen interest in sports, following the fortunes of Norwich City, North Walsham Rugby Club and the England cricket team, as well as keeping fit – he walks part of the Norfolk coast most weekends.
M: 07778 297298
T: 01603 756332
Services:
Building Consultancy
Sam Freakley is a qualified Building Surveyor at Roche, having joined the business in 2018. He has a Masters in Building Surveying, joined the firm as a Graduate Surveyor and qualified in 2021. He was promoted to Senior Building Surveyor in 2024.
His time is spent as an active member of the Project and Building Consultancy department with his main duties including building surveys, project management, reinstatement cost assessments, schedule of condition surveys, dilapidation surveys, and party wall negotiations. Sam has experience in numerous projects to date, including overseeing a multi-hundred-thousand-pound fit-out contract of a 44,000 sq ft multi-let office building in Norwich city centre.
Sam also brings with him a broad range of experience from his previous career as an environmental consultant and from his practical experience of the residential construction industry.
In his spare time, he enjoys running, cycling and swimming (preferably in the sea if it’s warm enough).
M: 07393 583072
T: 01603 756342
Ben joined Roche in 2020 and qualified as a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in November 2022, having successfully completed the RICS assessment of professional competence. Ben graduated from Sheffield Hallam University in 2019 achieving BSc (Hons) in Commercial Real Estate. He is actively involved in agency and professional work at Roche advising a number of clients across the office, industrial and retail sectors. He was promoted to Senior Surveyor in 2024.
Outside of work Ben loves to travel, a recent highlight being a trip to Malaysia and Singapore. Although he enjoys most sports, he has a particular love of Rugby and Cricket (he considers himself a useful bowler).
M: 07917 762230
T: 01603 756340
Hiedi joined Roche in November 2022 as part of the Agency team, in a part time supportive role. She obtained her AssocRICS qualification in Commercial Real Estate in March 2021.
Hiedi has worked in both Residential and Commercial Property for over 13 years and during that period has worked for several firms in the private sector putting her knowledge to good use. Her friendly and approachable personality is something the clients and applicants appreciate.
During her time with Roche Hiedi has also assisted the Property Management Department and continues to offer support.
Outside of work Hiedi enjoys walking and socialising. She is also a dog carer, looking after customer’s dogs whilst their owners are on holiday. She is also an advocate for sustainable energy and works to offset her carbon footprint along the way.
M: 07474 469929
T: 01603 756343
Chris joined Roche in September 2023 as a Graduate Commercial Surveyor. He is currently working towards completion of the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) in order to qualify as a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. Chris graduated from the University of Sheffield in 2023 achieving a Merit in his MSc Real Estate postgraduate degree. He is actively involved across the business to gain the necessary breadth and depth of experience required to achieve chartered status.
Outside of work Chris loves the outdoors and regularly walks the Norfolk coast, the Isle of Wight downs, and the scenic valleys of the Peak District. On rainy days he can usually be found putting his history degree to use when exploring the numerous country houses scattered across Norfolk and beyond.
M: 07907 449061
T: 01603 753336
Services:
Valuation & Professional Services
Michelle joined Roche in August 2023 as an Administrator for the Property Management department, dealing with data entry and day to day enquiries. She also organises maintenance and inspection tasks relating to each property, both on a routine basis and as matters arise.
Since joining Michelle has very much become a valued member of the team and has taken on more responsibility within the department. Michelle plans to work towards an AssocRICS qualification in Commercial Property Management/Real Estate, and ultimately to become a Property Manager.
Michelle’s previous roles have been focused on high levels of customer service, attention to detail and problem solving.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new places, going for walks and socialising. She also enjoys painting, making acrylic vinyl clocks, wax melts and anything crafty
M: 07362 597338
T: 01603 756341
News — August 2024
We are excited to share several significant promotions and leadership changes, reflecting the ongoing growth and evolution of our team.
News — July 2024
Roche’s Project and Building Consultancy team undertook a full RICS compliant due diligence survey of the property, teaming up with external Mechanical and Electrical engineers to provide a report.
News — July 2024
It was wonderful to host guests for our 28th annual Pimms & Petanque championships at the stunning Hoveton Hall estate.
News — May 2024
Roche Chartered Surveyors has completed the letting of a new build 16,440 sq ft industrial unit on Plot 4 at Snetterton Business Park to M&A Coachworks.
News — May 2024
Roche has been instructed to seek offers for £3.95 million for a prime freehold city centre property.
News — May 2024
Roche was engaged to carry out a comprehensive Building Survey to evaluate the condition of a Grade I Listed former yarn mill.
News — March 2024
Roche has secured a new occupier at Broadland Business Park in Norwich.
News — March 2024
On behalf of TCNUK, Roche Retail is delighted to announce the letting of 8 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, to Rural Hair & Co.
News — February 2024
Roche has completed the sale of large former factory premises in North Walsham.
News — February 2024
Roche Retail, acting jointly with BWD, has completed the sale of 69 London Street, Norwich, on behalf of The Co-operative Bank.
We are excited to share several significant promotions and leadership changes, reflecting the ongoing growth and evolution of our team.
Graham Jones and David Hall, who have both made invaluable contributions as Salaried Partners, have been promoted to Equity Partners. Their elevation to this new role is a testament to their dedication and the pivotal roles they have played in our firm’s success.
In our Agency and Project and Building Consultancy teams, Ben Common and Sam Freakley have been promoted to Senior Surveyors. Ben’s work in the Agency team and Sam’s contributions to the Project and Building Consultancy team have been exceptional, and we are proud to see them step into these senior roles. Additionally, Hiedi Collis has been promoted to the position of Agency Surveyor, further strengthening our Agency team.
We also want to recognise the contributions of James Allen, our longest-serving Partner and former Senior Partner. After many years of outstanding service, James has chosen to step down from his Partner role to take on the position of consultant. James will continue to serve his existing clients and oversee ongoing projects, ensuring continuity and maintaining the high standard of service that Roche is known for.
Our Managing Partner, Sam Kingston, says: “These promotions highlight the depth of talent within Roche and our commitment to recognising and rewarding the hard work and achievements of our team members. I am delighted to welcome Graham and David as Equity Partners and congratulate Sam, Ben, and Hiedi on their well-deserved promotions. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to James for his remarkable contributions and look forward to his continued involvement as a Consultant.”
Roche have provided building consultancy advice at the property over a number years, including overseeing a number of major refurbishment projects, renewal of major mechanical and electrical services and planned maintenance. Due to this relationship, Roche have unique insight and knowledge of the property.
The owners of the property have taken the decision to sell the freehold of the property and wanted to provide a comprehensive seller’s pack to any interested parties. David Hall MRICS, the partner heading Roche’s Project and Building Consultancy team undertook a full RICS compliant due diligence survey of the property, teaming up with external Mechanical and Electrical engineers to provide a report.
The client now has a fully detailed set of information to provide to any interested parties and give them a realistic view of the property, the issues it faces and the works required in the future to keep the property in good condition and compliant with all legislation and regulations.
David Hall said, ‘The property is large and complex with many challenges, our background knowledge of the property meant we were uniquely positioned to provide an in depth report providing a rounded picture of the condition and challenges the building faces. The speed of response from Roche and the team of consultants was important to meet the client’s tight time frames’.
It was wonderful to host guests for our 28th annual Pimms & Petanque championships at the stunning Hoveton Hall estate.
Despite a rainy June, we were fortunate with the weather and even enjoyed rare sunshine as our guests came together for some very competitive play across two weeks.
In week one despite the occasional bout of drizzle we managed to get through all the group games and then the finals, with Ben Common’s team the ‘Marseille Musketeers’ (Norwich City Council, Peter Colby and Alan Boswell) emerging the victors to claim the prestigious Roche Shield with a dominant performance against Sam Kingston’s team the ‘Paris Pitchers’ (Price Bailey).
Special mention to the ‘Calais Chuckers’ (Leathes Prior Solicitors) for going the extra kilometre to claim the French Dressing for the best dressed team
In week two the group games were very competitive with the standings going down to points difference. In the finals, the champagne and much coveted Roche Cup went to the Birketts LLP team the ‘Lyon Lobbers’, captained by David Hall beating Adrian Fennell’s team the ‘Rouen Rollers’ (comprising FOUR Agency and Real Consulting).
Congratulations also go to the ‘Calais Chuckers’ (Mills & Reeve) for the extra special effort made with their French themed attire resulting in them claiming the French Dressing for the best dressed team.
Thank you to everyone for making it such a wonderful event, we are already looking forward to the 2025 championships.
Roche Chartered Surveyors has completed the letting of a new build 16,440 sq ft industrial unit on Plot 4 at Snetterton Business Park to M&A Coachworks, a supercar manufacturer-approved vehicle repair specialist. Acting on behalf of the Landlord, Roche were able to negotiate a new long term lease for the property in conjunction with Dangerfield Property who represented the Tenant.
Ben Common, Surveyor at Roche said “This represents an excellent outcome for our client and enables M&A Coachworks to expand their operations into East Anglia within this high specification new build unit. The business park has seen a significant amount of development and expansion over the last few years and has become an established centre for distribution and employment”.
Roche has been instructed to seek offers for £3.95 million for a prime freehold city centre property.
Situated at 48/72 St Stephens Street, the subject property is on a highly prominent gateway location and sits on a key junction with the inner ring road.
The area is surrounded by student accommodation and in close proximity to some of Norwich’s most desirable housing.
St Stephens Street is Norwich’s high street and appeals to numerous retailers as well as benefiting from being the city’s primary bus route.
The property is within close proximity to Chantry Place shopping centre, two multi-storey car parks (NCP, St Stephens Street (264 spaces) and Chantry Place (1000 spaces)), Norwich bus station and large retailers such as Marks & Spencer, Superdrug, WHSmith and Iceland.
Formerly the Co-Op Department Store, the property spans 112,618sq ft (10,463 sq m) which has been divided into two retail stores – the former Poundland store and Wilkinsons.
Adrian Fennell, partner at Roche, comments: “This property provides significant potential and is situated in a prime location. Norwich is an affluent city, and this presents the perfect redevelopment opportunity for interested parties to capitalise on.”
Roche was engaged to carry out a comprehensive Building Survey to evaluate the condition of a Grade I Listed former yarn mill including the building fabric and any legal or regulatory issues facing the property.
Upon receiving instructions, the property was surveyed within two weeks and the findings were reported on within four weeks.
Located on Whitefriars in Norwich, the historical building was originally constructed as a yarn mill. Over its lifetime, it has been used for a variety of purposes and currently provides office accommodation over ground and five upper floors offering circa 28,000 sq. ft. of office and conferencing space.
A detailed survey report was provided to ensure the client is fully aware of the condition of the property and the challenges facing it over the coming years. All recommendations were accompanied by cost estimates, giving the client an extensive overview of the condition of the property, any works required to rectify issues and plan for the future being fully informed.
David Hall, Partner overseeing building surveying, commented: “It was fantastic to be involved in such a historically significant property and to be able to advise the client on the best strategies for its future preservation.”
David Hall, Partner at Roche
Roche has secured a new occupier at Broadland Business Park in Norwich.
Veincentre, whose Norwich clinic is currently in Surrey Street, are to take a 1,200 sq ft lease in the prestigious Lakeside 500 office building, with the new facility on target to open in May. The company is the UK’s largest vein treatment provider and treats varicose veins, thread veins, leg ulcers and thread veins on the face at 33 clinics around the country.
Roche is sole agent for Broadland Business Park, which offers both Grade A offices and prime development land for industrial and logistics uses. Veincentre’s tenancy is hot on the heels of four recent lettings on the Park to NatWest Bank, Barratt David Wilson Homes, Mott MacDonald and Optima Health and Optima Health.
“It is very heartening to be able to report exceptional interest in Broadland Business Park over recent months, with Veincentre being the latest new occupier to make the move to Broadland. Interest in the offices as well the industrial and logistics plots has been growing and remains strong across the whole of the Park.”
James Allen, Partner at Roche
On behalf of TCNUK, Roche Retail is delighted to announce the letting of 8 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, to Rural Hair & Co. Situated in the heart of the Norwich Lanes district, the property occupies a prime position amongst a number of well-established retailers and restaurants.
“This is an exciting new addition to St Benedicts Street which remains a vibrant and popular part of the city. I wish Rural Hair & Co all the very best with this new venture and expansion into the city.”
Ben Common, Surveyor at Roche
Roche has completed the sale of large former factory premises in North Walsham.
Robertson House is located in a prominent position at the entrance to the town’s principle industrial estate. The 3.71 acre site is currently occupied by 41,592 sq ft of buildings comprising workshop and warehouse accommodation with a two-storey office, forecourt parking and a rear yard. Also at the rear is large area of undeveloped land.
The new owners are planning convert and develop the site to create a number of smaller units as a new industrial business park.
“We are delighted to complete this sale. Large freehold sites such as this are rare and highly sought-after, and the location of Robertson House at the entrance to North Walsham’s main industrial area also made it a very attractive and cost-effective proposition for both developers and potential occupiers.”
Graham Jones, Partner at Roche
Roche Retail, acting jointly with BWD, has completed the sale of 69 London Street, Norwich, on behalf of The Co-operative Bank.
“After significant levels of interest in the premises, it was an excellent result to have agreed a sale significantly in excess of the asking price of £335,000 on behalf of our client. The sale demonstrates that city centre high street property remains very much in demand, and I look forward to seeing what is next in store for this historic building.”
Ben Common, Surveyor at Roche
