Half Yearly Report

RNS Number : 8225M
UK Commercial Property Trust Ltd
23 August 2011
 



UK Commercial Property Trust Limited

("UKCPT or the "Company")

 

Half Year Results

 

 

UK Commercial Property Trust Limited (LSE: UKCM), the largest UK focused commercial property trust, announces its results for the half year ended at 30 June 2011.

 

Financial Highlights

·   Increase in the value of the property portfolio of 1.4% in the period to £1.014 billion (31 December 2010: £898.8 million);

·   Annual dividend yield of 6.4% based on period end share price;

·   Total rental income in the period of £33.7 million, an increase of 18.3% from the period to 30 June 2010;

·   NAV per share of 76.9p (31 December 2010: 77,0p); total adjusted NAV per share of 75.6p (31 December 2010: 75.7p)

·   NAV Total return for the six month period of 3.3%;

·   Share price total return of 3.2% in the period resulting in share price premium to NAV at 30 June 2011 remaining the same as 31 December 2010 at 8.7%;

·   Over three years from the low point in the economic cycle, the Company has produced a NAV total return of 10.7% and share price total return of 52.4%, both considerably ahead of the 3.0% total return on the IPD Balanced Quarterly Index;

·   New £150 million seven year borrowing facility secured increasing UKCPT's financial capability, allowing the Company to act quickly and strategically with regard to acquisitions and asset management initiatives while still maintaining the lowest gearing (10%) within the Company's peer group.

 

Property Highlights

·   Purchase of St. George's Retail Park, Leicester for £49.9 million in February 2011 at a yield of 6.2%;

·   Purchase of Rotunda Leisure Complex, Kingston upon Thames for £50.7 million in May 2011 at a yield of 6.5%;

·   Redevelopment of  the former BHS Store at The Parade, Swindon  completed in June 2011 contributing to a £17 million increase in value since the start of the development;

·   Fourteen new lettings in the period creating £1.4 million of annualised income;

·   Average unexpired lease term of the property portfolio is 9 years and 7 months;

·   Void rate (excluding pre-lets) at June 2011 was 3.6% compared to industry average of 8.6%;

·   Property portfolio ranked in top quartile for covenant strength in the independent IPD Rental Information Service.

 

*The net asset value per share is calculated under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") and is unaudited.  It includes all current period income and is calculated after the deduction of all dividends paid prior to 30 June 2011.  It does not include provision for the 2011 second interim dividend payable in August 2011.

The NAV per share at 30 June 2011 is based on 1,197,348,858 shares of 25p each, being the total number of shares in issue at that time (excluding 41,445,142 shares held in treasury).

 

Commenting on the results, Chris Hill, Chairman of UKCPT, said:  "Our property portfolio continued to perform well throughout the period.  We were also pleased to have made two significant acquisitions - the St. George's Retail Park in Leicester and the Rotunda Leisure Complex in Kingston upon Thames. These two prime properties add over £6 million of annualised revenue and also present us with further opportunities to enhance returns through asset management, typifying the type of acquisitions we are currently seeking.

 

"Despite the ongoing challenges in the macroeconomic environment, we remain positive about the long-term outlook for commercial property and, in particular, for UKCPT, which we expect to benefit from the continued strength of the market for prime and London properties. In addition, with the new debt facility now in place, the Company is well positioned to enhance its income and capital returns through selective acquisitions and asset management initiatives."

 

Robert Boag, Senior Investment Director at Ignis Asset Management (UKCPT's Investment Manager), added: "Our focus on driving growth and increasing rental income through active asset management and the acquisition of prime income producing properties where we can add value has been clearly demonstrated in the first half results. 

 

"While there is still strong investor interest in and competition for a limited pool of prime assets in sought after locations, there is increasing evidence that banks are now bringing more secondary assets to the market.  We believe that this will be a crucial feature for the prospects of that market in the short to medium term, but may also provide some interesting acquisition opportunities for the Company.  Against this backdrop we remain confidentin our ability to source further properties that will complement the portfolio and, in doing so, provide an opportunity to enhance dividend cover."

 

 

For further information:

 

Ignis Investment Services Limited:                          0141 222 8000

Robert Boag / Graeme McDonald,

 

Financial Dynamics:                                                       020 7831 3113                   

Stephanie Highett / Richard Sunderland

 

J.P. Morgan Cazenove                                                    0207 155 4606                   

Edward Gibson-Watt

 

 

 

Performance Summary

Capital Values & Gearing


30 June 2011

31 December 2010

% Change

Total assets less current liabilities (£'000)


1,027,369

965,241

6.4

Net asset value per share (p)


76.9

77.0

(0.1)

Ordinary Share Price (p)


82.15

82.25

(0.1)

Premium to net asset value (%)*


8.7

8.7

-

Gearing (%)**


10.2

4.4

-

Total Return

6 month %

1 year %

3 year %

% Return since

NAV***

3.3

7.1

10.7

4.4

Share Price***

3.2

10.7

52.4

11.3

Investment Property Databank





Quarterly Index

4.4

9.8

3.0

(3.9)

 

FTSE Real Estate Investment Trusts Index

17.5

45.9

(9.4)

-

FTSE All-Share Index

3.0

25.6

21.0

                20.2

Earnings & Dividends


30 June 2011

30 June 2010


Dividends declared per ordinary share (p)


2.625

2.625


Dividend yield (%) ****


6.4

6.6


FTSE All-Share Index Yield (%)


3.0

3.3


AIC UK High Income Sector Yield (%)


5.9

6.7


 

* Based on IFRS NAV above reduced by dividend adjustment of 1.3125p (2010 - 1.3125p). ** Calculated as gross borrowings divided by total assets less current liabilities. *** Assumes re-investment of dividends excluding transaction costs.

**** Based on an annual dividend of 5.25p.

Sources: Ignis Investment Services, Investment Property Databank ("IPD"), Association of Investment Companies ("AIC").

Chairman's Statement

For the half year ended 30 June 2011

I am pleased to present the half yearly report of the Company for the six month period to 30 June 2011.

Economic background

The economy has struggled to gain any real momentum in the first six months of 2011. After the 0.5% fall in the fourth quarter of 2010, we have seen lower than expected growth in the first and second quarters of 2011 being 0.5% and 0.2% respectively. Despite the references to 'one off' factors, the downgrading of growth forecasts by many forecasters, including the Bank of England, has highlighted the fragile nature of the recovery and its slow pace. Given the consumer orientated nature of the economy, a large part of this fragility was caused by the deteriorating outlook for the consumer with anticipation of the effects of cuts in public spending, limited wage increases and high inflation caused by rising commodity prices, all resulting in a squeeze on consumer income. The hoped for rebalancing of the economy seems a long way away, despite the competitive exchange rate. The one positive aspect of this economic weakness was that interest rates remained on hold at 0.5% as the Monetary Policy Committee felt the recovery was not strong enough to justify raising rates even though CPI inflation, currently sitting at 4.4%, is forecast to exceed 5% in late 2011.

Commercial Property Markets

Given the economic background, commercial property markets performed well in the six month period. Commercial property returns for the first half of the year were positive with the IPD Quarterly Index showing a total return of 4.4% of which 1.4% was capital driven. This figure, however, masks divergent performances in sub sectors, with London, the South East and prime markets, aided by continued overseas investment, continuing to perform well. This contrasts sharply with regional and secondary properties for which there is currently very little demand. One other interesting aspect of the market in the last six months has been a major increase in the number and scale of large investment transactions. This suggests willingness from investors, who are able to access substantial pools of capital, to take on a greater level of asset specific and liquidity risk at current prices.

Net Asset Value ("NAV")/Share Price Performance

The Company's NAV total return for the six month period was 3.3%. While the underlying property portfolio increased in value by 1.4% over the period, this was more than offset by one off transaction costs on property purchases and the new Barclays loan facility and also movements in interest rate swap values due to additional swap instruments taken out to minimise interest rate risk on both the existing and new borrowing facilities.

As a result of these factors, and despite the strong underlying property performance, the NAV total return was lower than the IPD Quarterly Index of 4.4%. The share price total return was marginally lower than the NAV total return at 3.2%. The premium at which the share price stands to NAV remained the same at 8.7%. However, over the longer term, the Company's performance remains competitive both on a NAV and share price total return basis. From inception the NAV total return and share price total return are 4.4% and 11.3%  respectively. The three year  NAV and share price total returns for the Company, from the low point in the economic cycle, are 10.7% and 52.4% respectively. These compare to the IPD Quarterly Index three year total return of 3.0%. The Company has also significantly outperformed the FTSE UK Real Estate Investment Trust Index which shows a total return of -9.4% over the same period.

A full description of the portfolio performance and portfolio asset management activity is contained in the Manager's Report.

Significant Property Transactions

As announced in the annual report, the Company purchased St. George's Open A1 Retail Park, Leicester in February 2011 for £49.9 million, an initial yield of 6.2%. In May the Company also announced it had purchased the Rotunda Leisure Complex in Kingston upon Thames. This prime, purpose built, leisure scheme extends over 170,000 sq ft, and is located in one of the top three retail destinations in Greater London. It was purchased for £50.7 million reflecting an initial yield of 6.5%. Together, these two purchases will add over £6 million to the Company's annual revenue stream and will present the Manager with further opportunities to enhance returns to shareholders. In addition, the new purchases will not have a material impact on the tenant void rates which, at 3.6%, are still well below market average.


Chairman's Statement (Continued)

Borrowing

On 28 April 2011 shareholders approved a change in investment policy allowing the Company and its subsidiaries to borrow up to 25% of total assets. Following this approval, the Company was pleased to announce it had secured a new £150 million seven year loan facility with Barclays on attractive terms. This new facility is in line with the Company's strategy of increasing its financial capability, allowing it to act quickly and strategically with regard to acquisitions and portfolio asset management. It should also be emphasised, however, that, even when this loan is fully utilised, the Company's gearing will still be the lowest within the Company's peer group.

As at the date of this report the Company had borrowings of £140 million. This is made up of £60 million of the new Barclays facility and the full £80 million of the existing Lloyds facility, following the draw-down of the remaining £37.9 million of the Lloyds facility in May 2011. The Company has entered into interest rate swap agreements that cover all of the Lloyds facility and £100 million of the Barclays facility. These swap agreements will provide certainty as to the interest rates the Company will have to pay on the majority of its debt over the longer term. The blended interest rate on the £140 million that is currently drawn down is a competitive 3.8% based on current debt margins.

Dividends

The Company has declared and paid the following dividends during the period:


Ex dividend date

Pay date

Dividend Rate (p)

4th interim for 2010

09-Feb-11

28-Feb-11

1.3125

1st interim for 2011

11-May-11

31-May-11

1.3125

Total



2.6250

 

 

On 2 August 2011, the Company announced a second interim dividend in respect of the period 1 April to 30 June 2011 of 1.3125p per Ordinary Share. This is payable on 31 August 2011 to shareholders on the register as at 12 August 2011.

Based on the last four dividends paid and the share price as at 30 June 2011, the yield on the Company's shares is 6.4%. This compares favourably to the yield on the FTSE All-Share Index of 2.99% and also the average yield on the Association of Investment Companies High Income sector of 5.9% as at 30 June 2011.

Outlook

Despite the ongoing challenges in the macroeconomic environment, the Directors remain positive about the long-term outlook for commercial property and, in particular, the prospects for your Company. The commercial property market is forecast to deliver total returns of 8.3%* in 2011, mainly driven by the continued strength of Central London and other prime assets. The Company is expected to benefit from this trend given the prime nature of its portfolio and the potential to derive additional value through asset management opportunities. In addition, with the new debt facility now in place, the Company is well positioned to enhance both income and capital returns through selective acquisitions and asset management initiatives.

Christopher M.W. Hill

Chairman

23 August 2011

*Source: Ignis Investment Services


Manager's Review

For the half year ended 30 June 2011

Over the first half of 2011 the rate of capital growth within the property market subsided as the yield re-rating evident throughout 2010 all but disappeared. The IPD Quarterly Index ("Index") recorded capital growth of 1.4% over the period, with the second Quarter 2011 recording the lowest rate of growth for 24 months.

Strong investor demand in Central London and the South East as well as prime locations elsewhere in the country, from both UK institutions and overseas buyers, continue to support capital values. However, investors remain at best cautious over secondary property across all sectors and, where occupational demand is weak, there is scarcely any interest from these investors, except at price levels which remain unpalatable to many vendors.

Investors are also wary of occupier markets in provincial locations but remain strongly in favour of London, the South East and more vibrant regional cities. The recurring theme is one of limited suitable investment stock and hence a limitation in the number of transactions, especially at the prime end of the market.

We are now entering a phase where overall property returns are derived mainly from income, which has remained steady throughout the last 18 months. Although rental values remain broadly flat, the office sector is the only area to show some growth (Index total return of 5.0%) but again this is only in Central London where, despite a slight easing in take-up, the limited supply continues to support rental growth. This is in contrast to the rest of the country where occupational demand is still undermined by the languid economic recovery and has resulted in the outlook for rents remaining weak.

This concentration on prime property, from both an occupational and investment perspective, is also evident in the retail and industrial sector. For example, although there remains strong occupational demand from supermarket operators (particularly in the convenience format) and a number of US retail brands, their focus remains in prime locations, particularly in London.

As consumer spending continues to be squeezed by high inflation and low wage growth, the prospects for a number of retailers look very challenging, with Ernst & Young recently announcing that retailers have issued more profit warnings during the first half of 2011 than in the whole of 2010. This is consistent with a number of retail administrations; Jane Norman and TJ Hughes being the most notable casualties. The Index total return for the retail market during the period was 4.3%, with performance in retail warehouses and South East Retail being the two strongest contributors to performance within that sector.

The first half of the year has seen a significant slowdown in industrial occupational activity, partly explained by the uncertainty resulting from the weak economy but also the scarcity of prime modern units which have deferred many occupier decisions. The Index total return for the industrial market was 3.6% in the first half of the year.

Overall investment activity in the property sector has remained largely unchanged over the period and in the second quarter of 2011 was the lowest since early 2009, limited as it has been by the eurozone debt crisis and the poor consumer outlook. Although the IPD All Property yield has reduced further over the period to 6.1% in June this does mask a significant variation between sector and region. Central London Offices and Industrials have been keenly sought after with investment volumes and yields improving. However, yields for high street retail and rest of UK offices remain under pressure given the occupational risks that continue to exist in these markets.


Property Portfolio

As at 30 June 2011, the Company's property portfolio was valued at £1,013.5 million, representing an increase in value of 1.4% excluding transaction costs since December 2010. This compares to 1.3% for the IPD benchmark.

The Company's strategic investment in retail warehouses and shopping centres over the last 18 months has been amply justified, with a 12.2% capital value uplift (net of capital expenditure) across all retail holdings across the period. Although continued investment demand reflected in further yield compression partly explains this uplift in value, further capital expenditure, particularly in the Company's shopping centre assets, has been a significant contributor.

The Company's West End office holdings have delivered the greatest capital uplift of any sub-sector in the portfolio through the first half of the year, with an increase of 6.5%, but this has been offset by the decline in value of the rest of the Company's office holdings, where weak investor and occupational demand has impacted on yields and, to a far lesser extent, rents. As a consequence, overall office values have increased by only 1.1% over the first half of the year. Nonetheless, these assets still continue to offer a compelling income return for the Company.

Capital values within the Company's industrial holdings have remained broadly static with a 0.9% increase over the period. Gains have been achieved by virtue of strong investment demand caused by improved yields or asset management. This has been partially offset by the fall in values in some of the shorter income industrial stocks.

Income

Annualised income increased by 11.6% over the period from £61.1 million to £68.2 million. The majority of this income increase was the result of the two major acquisitions: St George's Retail Park, Leicester and the Rotunda Leisure Complex at Kingston upon Thames. These two properties, together, will contribute additional income of £6.5 million per annum.

Although a concentrated effort continues to be made on letting the Company's voids, with 14 lettings producing annualised income of £1.4 million (after rent free periods) over the period, the opposing forces of retail administrations, tenants' decisions not to renew at expiry and lease surrenders which have been agreed to support related asset management initiatives have resulted in an annualised loss of income of £1.0 million. Taken together there has therefore been a net gain of £0.4 million on a like for like annualised basis.

Rent reviews and contracted uplifts have been minimal but nonetheless in tough market conditions produced an additional annual income of £212,000 over the first half of the year.

Overall income return for the portfolio for the first half of 2011 was 3.3% which remains higher than the comparable IPD figure of 2.9%. Rent collection over the period continues to be robust, reflecting the prime nature of the portfolio and the strong covenant base.

 

Asset Management

In June, the Company completed the redevelopment of the former BHS Department Store at The Parade, Swindon, at an overall cost of £14 million contributing to a £17 million increase in capital value since the start of the development.  In addition, The Parade witnessed the opening of a flagship store for River Island. This and the new format BHS Department Store are both understood to be trading ahead of expectations.

 

This significant capital investment by the Company has dramatically improved the retail offer available and, in doing so, has improved The Parade's position within the retail hierarchy in the town. This, in turn, has improved the capital and income prospects of the Company's ownership. There is positive interest from a number of tenants in the remaining units within the development. The Company hopes to announce further lettings later in the year. Once fully let, the completed development will provide an additional £1 million of annual income.

Following the refurbishment of the 1st Floor at 6 Arlington Street, London, W1, the Company immediately completed a letting on a ten year lease with an option to break at the fifth year. The agreed headline rent of £172,600 per annum was ahead of the Company's estimated rental value for the premises.

 

Following the purchase of St George's Retail Park, Leicester, in February, the Company has obtained planning consent for a 73,500 sq. ft. food store prelet  to Tesco Stores plc. This represents a significant step forward in achieving one of the key objectives for this property and the Company hopes to be in a position to commence development in 2012 for a store opening in 2013. Using a similar approach to the successful strategy at The Parade, Swindon, this initiative will re-position the park within the city's retail hierarchy and in doing so improve the overall income and capital prospects for one of the Company's top ten properties by capital value.

 

Transactions

The Company invested £100.6 million at a combined income yield of 6.4% in two significant acquisitions in the first half of the year. The first, in February, was St George's Retail Park, Leicester, for £49.9 million. This Open A1 Retail Park (with food) extending to 165,500 sq. ft. is prominently located within Leicester city centre and includes tenants such as PC World, Toys R Us, Mothercare, and Pets at Home.

The second purchase was The Rotunda Leisure Complex in Kingston upon Thames for £50.7 million in May, which represented the Company's first acquisition in the leisure sector. The Rotunda is a prime purpose-built leisure scheme extending to 170,000 sq. ft. strategically and centrally located and close to the town's bus and railway stations. It is anchored by a 14 screen Odeon cinema and a David Lloyd Fitness Club. In addition it has a number of restaurants including Pizza Express and Prezzo.

Both purchases are typical of the Company's acquisition policy, namely the purchase of sound income producing assets with strong property fundamentals which offer the potential to improve returns through disciplined and focused asset management.

Outlook

Capital returns will continue to be modest with a strong performance in London, the South East and prime sectors being offset by weakness in the secondary and regional markets, where risks still remain. Institutional and overseas interest is still strong, competing for a limited pool of prime assets in sought after locations, which should maintain upward pressure at the top end of what is a highly segmented market. In relation to secondary markets, there is increasing evidence that banks are bringing more assets to the market as they aim to reduce their exposure to property. This will be a crucial feature for the prospects of the secondary property market in the short to medium term, but may also provide some interesting acquisition opportunities.

Income is increasing in importance on overall property returns. Office and retail rents in Central London and retail rents in some of the stronger South East and provincial retail locations are expected to grow at a much faster rate than other locations. However, industrial rents are expected to fall back slightly against the backdrop of the weak economy. The increasing importance of income brings into sharp focus the constant need for active asset management, where the Company's Investment Manager has significant experience, to ensure that overall returns are enhanced.

Although the availability of suitable investments remains limited, the Company is confident in its ability to source further properties that will complement the portfolio and, in doing so, provide an opportunity to enhance dividend cover.



Property Portfolio

As at 30 June 2011

Property Value Range

 

The Parade, Swindon, Wiltshire

Junction 27 Retail Park, Leeds

Great Lodge Retail Park, Tunbridge Wells

176/ 206 Kensington High Street, London, W8

St George's Retail Park, Leicester

The Rotunda, Kingston upon Thames                                                                                                    

Kew Retail Park, Richmond                                                                                                                       

Darwin Shopping Centre, Shrewsbury                                                                           

Sovereign Centre, Weston Super Mare                                                                                                                                                 
15 Great Marlborough Street, London, W1

Ocado Distribution Unit, Hatfield Business Area, Hatfield

Over £30 million

(representing 52% of the portfolio capital value)

 

B&Q, Roneo Corner, Romford

Charter Place, Vine Street, Uxbridge

Dolphin Estate, Sunbury on Thames

No 2 Temple Quay, Bristol

Argos Unit, Magna Park, Lutterworth,

Broadbridge Retail Park, Horsham,

Asda, Gowerton Road, Brackmills, Northampton

Hannah Close, Neasden, London, NW10

Colmore Court, 9 Colmore Row, Birmingham

16/20 High Street & 1/3 Bedford Street, Exeter
Network House and Meadowside, Hemel Hempstead

81/85 George Street, Edinburgh

6 Arlington Street, London, SW1

£20 million - £29.9 million

(representing 30% of the portfolio capital value)

No 1 Temple Quay, Bristol

13 Great Marlborough Street, Soho, London, W1

Pall Mall Court, King Street, Manchester

Pride Hill Shopping Centre, Shrewsbury

140/144 Kings Road, London, SW3

Craven House, Fouberts Place, London, W1                                                                                    

14-22 West Street, Marlow                                                                                                                         

2-8 Buchanan Street, (121 /132 Argyle Street), Glasgow                                                                     

134/138 North Street, Brighton                                                                   

Riverside Mall Shopping Centre, Shrewsbury

1 Brunel Way, Slough,

£10 million - £19.9 million

(representing 15% of the portfolio capital value)

 

52/56 Market Street, Manchester

Freshford House,  Redcliffe,  Bristol

84-86 Bushey Road, Raynes Park, London, SW20                                                                               

Knaves Beech Industrial Estate, Boundary Way, Loudwater                                                               

146 Kings Road, London, SW3                                                                                                                 

WCA Building, Bristol

Up to £9.9 million

(representing 3% of the portfolio capital value)

Total number of properties

Total number of tenancies

Total average property value

Total floor area

 

41

321

£24.7 million

4,278,457 sq ft

                                                                                                                                                                              

Half Yearly Condensed Consolidated Income Statement

For the half year ended 30 June 2011

 

 


Half year ended  30 June 2011

(unaudited)

£000

Half year ended  30 June 2010

(unaudited)

£000

For year ended  31 December 2010

(audited)

£000

Income





Rental income


33,672

28,453

60,186

Gains on investment properties

2

5,901

35,655

45,287

Interest revenue receivable


84

327

598

Total income


39,657

64,435

106,071

Expenditure





Investment management fee

8

(3,602)

(3,417)

(6,977)

Direct operating expenses of let property


(1,330)

(1,141)

(2,614)

Valuation and other professional fees


(429)

(403)

(1,590)

Directors fees

8

(66)

(66)

(212)

Administration fees

8

(56)

(54)

(110)

Other expenses


(153)

(200)

(375)

Aborted project costs


-

-

(1,268)

Total expenditure


(5,636)

(5,281)

(13,146)

Net operating profit before finance costs


34,021

59,154

92,925

Net finance costs





Finance costs


(1,219)

(567)

(1,369)

Net profit from ordinary activities before taxation


32,802

58,587

91,556

Taxation on profit on ordinary activities


-

-

-

Net profit for the period


32,802

58,587

91,556

Other comprehensive income:





Loss arising on interest rate swaps

9

(2,059)

(1,648)

(1,353)

Net comprehensive gain for the period


30,743

56,939

90,203

Earnings per share (p)

3

2.74p

5.14p

7.83p


Half Yearly Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

As at 30 June 2011



30 June 2011 (unaudited)

 

30 June 2010 (unaudited)

 

31 December
2010
(audited)


Notes

£'000

£'000

£'000

Non-current assets





Investment properties

2

1,009,343

871,975

898,750



1,009,343

871,975

898,750

Current assets





Trade and other receivables


8,692

5,093

5,146

Cash and cash equivalents


28,974

94,321

80,937



37,666

86,083

Total assets


1,047,009

984,833

Current liabilities





Trade and other payables


(19,640)

(17,352)

(19,592)

Long term liabilities





Bank loans


(102,650)

(41,860)

(41,884)

Interest rate swaps

9

(3,412)

(1,648)

(1,353)

Total liabilities


(125,702)

(62,829)

Net assets


921,307

910,529

922,004

Represented by:





Share capital


482,703

473,025

482,703

Treasury shares


(25,264)

(25,264)

(25,264)

Special distributable reserve


631,188

643,847

635,717

Capital reserve


(163,908)

(179,441)

(169,809)

Interest rate swap reserve


(3,412)

(1,648)

(1,353)

Revenue reserve


-

-

-

Equity Shareholders' funds


921,307

921,994

Minority interest


-

10



921,307

910,529

922,004

Net asset value per share

6

76.9p

77.0p


Half Yearly Condensed Consolidated Statement of

Changes in Equity

For the half year ended 30 June 2011

 




Special



Interest




Share

Treasury

distributable

Capital

Revenue

rate swap

Minority



capital

shares

reserve

reserve

reserve

reserve

interest

Total


£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

£'000

Half year ended 30 June 2011 (unaudited)









At 1 January 2011

482,703

(25,264)

635,717

(169,809)

-

(1,353)

10

922,004

Net profit for the period

-

-

-

-

32,802

-

-

32,802

Other comprehensive income

-

-

-

-

-

(2,059)

-

(2,059)

Dividends paid

-

-

-

-

(31,430)

-

-

(31,430)

Transfer in respect of gains on investment properties

-

-

-

5,901

(5,901)

-

-

-

Transfer from special distributable reserve

-

-

(4,529)

-

4,529

-

-

-

Buyback of Minority Interest

-

-

-

-

-

-

(10)

(10)

At 30 June 2011

482,703

(25,264)

631,188

(163,908)

0

(3,412)

0

921,307

Half year ended 30 June 2010 (unaudited)









At 1 January 2010

322,680

(25,264)

646,307

(215,096)

-

-

10

728,637

Net profit for the period

-

-

-

-

58,587

-

-

58,587

Other comprehensive income

-

-

-

-

-

(1,648)

-

(1,648)

Issue of Ordinary Shares

150,345

-

-

-

-

-

-

150,345

Issue costs

-

-

(2,104)

-

-

-

-

(2,104)

Dividends paid

-

-

-

-

(23,288)

-

-

(23,288)

Transfer in respect of gains on investment properties

-

-

-

35,655

(35,655)

-

-

-

Transfer from special distributable reserve

-

-

(356)

-

356

-

-

-

At 30 June 2010

473,025

(25,264)

643,847

(179,441)

-

(1,648)

10

910,529

For the year ended 31 December 2010 (audited)









At 1 January 2010

322,680

(25,264)

646,307

(215,096)

-

-

10

728,637

Net profit for the year

-

-

-

-

91,556

-

-

91,556

Other comprehensive income

-

-

-

-

-

(1,353)

-

(1,353)

Issue of Ordinary Shares

160,023

-

-

-

-

-

-

160,023

Issue costs

-


(2,141)

-

-

-

-

(2,141)

Dividends paid

-

-

-

-

(54,718)

-

-

(54,718)

Transfer in respect of gains on investment properties

-

-

-

45,287

(45,287)

-

-

-

Transfer from special distributable reserve

-

-

(8,449)

-

8,449

-

-

-

At 31 December 2010

482,703

(25,264)

635,717

(169,809)

-

(1,353)

10

922,004


Half Yearly Condensed Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

For the half year ended 30 June 2011


Half year ended
30 June 2011 (unaudited)

£'000

Half year ended
30 June 2010
(unaudited)

£'000

Year ended
31 December
2010
(audited)
£'000

Cash flows from operating activities




Net operating profit for the period before taxation

32,802

58,587

91,556

Adjustments for:




Gains on investment properties

(5,901)

(35,655)

(45,287)

(Increase)/decrease in operating trade and other receivables

(3,546)

88

35

Increase in operating trade and other payables

48

1,996

4,236

Net finance costs

965

264

771

Net cash inflow from operating activities

24,368

25,280

51,311

Cash flows from investing activities




Purchase of investment properties

(100,610)

(123,227)

(123,502)

Capital expenditure

(4,082)

(2,608)

(9,798)

Interest received

84

327

598

Net cash outflow from investing activities

(104,608)

(125,508)

(132,702)

Cash flows from financing activities




Proceeds from issue of Ordinary Shares

-

150,345

150,345

Issue costs of ordinary share capital

-

(2,104)

(2,141)

Dividends paid

(31,430)

(23,288)

(54,718)

Net proceeds from utilisation of bank loan after set up costs

60,706

-

-

Bank loan interest paid

(406)

(242)

(514)

Payments under interest rate swap arrangement

(583)

(325)

(807)

Buyback of minority interest

(10)

-

-

Net cash inflow from financing activities

28,277

124,386

92,165

Cash balance brought forward

80,937

70,163

70,163

Closing cash and cash equivalents

28,974

94,321

80,937


 

Unaudited Notes to the Accounts

For the half year ended 30 June 2011

1.      The unaudited interim results have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in the Company's financial statements at 31 December 2010. These accounting policies are expected to be followed throughout the year ending 31 December 2011.

2.    Investment properties                                                                                                 


Half year ended
30 June 2011
£'000

 

Freehold and leasehold properties


 

Opening Valuation

898,750

 

Purchases at cost                                                                                                                            

100,610

Capital expenditure                                                                                                                               

4,082

 

Gain on revaluation to market value               

10,093

 

Adjustment for lease incentives                                                                                                      

(4,192)

 

Fair Value at 30 June 2011

1,009,343

 

The market value provided by CB Richard Ellis Limited at the period end was £1,013,535,000. An adjustment has been made for lease incentives of £4,192,000 that are already accounted for as an asset.

3.      The earnings per Ordinary Share are based on the net profit for the period of £32,802,000 (30 June 2010: net profit of £58,587,000) and 1,197,348,858 (30 June 2010: 1,139,850,239) Ordinary Shares, being the weighted average number of shares in issue during the period.

4.      Earnings for the period to 30 June 2011 should not be taken as a guide to the results for the year to 31 December 2011.

5.      As at 30 June 2011 the total number of shares in issue was 1,197,348,858 (30 June 2010: 1,185,098,858).

6.      The net asset value per ordinary share is based on net assets of £921,307,000 (30 June 2010: £910,529,000) and 1,197,348,858 (2010: 1,185,098,858) ordinary shares, being the number of ordinary shares in issue at the period end.


Unaudited Notes to the Accounts (Continued)

7.    Dividends

Dividend for the period 1 October 2010 to 31 December 2010, paid 28 February 2011

Dividend for the period 1 January 2011 to 31 March 2011, paid 31 May 2011

A dividend of 1.3125p per share for the period 1 April 2011 to 30 June 2011 is payable on 31 August 2011.

Under International Financial Reporting Standards, these unaudited financial statements do not reflect this dividend.

8.      No Director has an interest in any transactions which are, or were, unusual in their nature or significance to the Group. The Directors of the Company received fees for their services totalling £86,000 (30 June 2010: £66,000) for the six months ended 30 June 2011, none of which was payable at the period end (30 June 2010: nil). This total 2011 fee includes an additional one off fee of £5,000 paid to each of the Directors, excluding Mr J Robertson, in respect of additional services undertaken in relation to securing the Barclays loan facility. This fee has been capitalised in the accounts and will be written off over the life of the facility. Ignis Investment Services Limited received fees for its services as Investment Manager. The total charge to the Income Statement during the period for these fees was £3,658,000 (30 June 2010: £3,471,000) of which £56,000 was administration fees (30 June 2010: £54,000). £1,845,000 (30 June 2010: £1,790,000) of this total charge remained payable at the period end.

9.   Financing

         The Company drew down the remaining £37.9 million of its £80 million facility with Lloyds Banking Group plc on 19 May 2011.

The Company entered into an interest rate swap on this additional draw down of £37.9 million on 19 May 2011. The hedge has been achieved as the notional and loan principal match, as well as the swap loan term (June 2015). Interest on the swap is receivable at a variable rate calculated on the same LIBOR as for the bank loan, and payable at a fixed rate of 2.215% per annum.

The fair value of the liability in respect of the total £80 million interest rate swap contract with Lloyds Banking Group plc at 30 June 2011 is £2,107,000.

On 20 May 2011 the Company announced that it had put in place a seven year term loan facility with Barclays Bank plc to enable it to borrow up to a further £150 million for general corporate purposes. As noted in the announcement the new facility will allow the Company to act quickly and strategically with regard to acquisitions and portfolio asset management.

As at 30 June 2011 the Company had drawn down £25 million of its £150 million facility with Barclays Bank plc.


Unaudited Notes to the Accounts (Continued)

9.  Financing (Continued)

The Company entered into an interest rate swap on the £25 million of borrowings with Barclays Bank plc. This hedge has been achieved as the notional and loan principal match as well as the swap and loan term (May 2018). Interest on the swap is receivable at a variable rate calculated on the same LIBOR as for the bank loan, and payable at a fixed rate of 2.9925% per annum. On the same date the Company also entered into an interest rate swap for a further £75 million at the same rate, effective from 15 July 2011.

 

         The fair value of the liability in respect of the interest rate swap contract with Barclays Bank plc at 30 June 2011 is          £1,305,000.

 

10.    The Group results consolidate those of the Company, UK Commercial Property Holdings Limited, UK Commercial Property GP Limited, UKCPT Limited Partnership, UK Commercial Property Nominee Limited, UK Commercial Property Estates Holdings Limited and UK Commercial Property Estates Limited.

The Company owns 100% of the issued share capital of UK Commercial Property Holdings Limited, a company incorporated in Guernsey whose principal business is that of an investment and property company.

The Company owns 100% of the issued share capital of UK Commercial Property GP Limited, a company incorporated in Guernsey whose principal business is that of an investment and property company.

UKCPT Limited Partnership is a Guernsey limited partnership, whose principal business is that of an investment and property entity. UK Commercial Property Holdings Limited and UK Commercial Property GP Limited, have a partnership interest of 99% and 1% respectively in this limited partnership. UK Commercial Property GP Limited is the general partner and UK Commercial Property Holdings Limited is a limited partner of this partnership.

The Company owns 100% of the issued share capital of UK Commercial Property Estates Holdings Limited, (formerly known as SCP Group Limited). This Company, whose principal business is that of a holding company, is incorporated in Guernsey. UK Commercial Property Estates Holdings Limited owns 100% of the issued share capital of UK Commercial Property Estates Limited, a Company incorporated in Guernsey and whose principal business is that of an investment and property company.

11.    Post Balance Sheet Events

On 4 August 2011 the Company drew down a further £35 million of the Barclays Bank plc loan facility.


Principal risks and uncertainties

The Company's assets consist of direct investments in UK commercial property. Its principal risks are therefore related to the UK commercial property market in general, but also the particular circumstances of the properties in which it is invested and their tenants. Other risks faced by the Company include economic, strategic, regulatory, management and control, financial and operational. These risks, and the way in which they are mitigated and managed, are described in more detail under the heading Principal Risks and Uncertainties within the Report of the Directors in the Company's Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2010. The Company's principal risks and uncertainties have not changed materially since the date of that report and are not expected to change materially for the remaining six months of the Company's financial year.


Statement of Directors' Responsibilities in Respect of

the Half Yearly Financial Report to 30 June 2011

We confirm that to the best of our knowledge:

·       The condensed set of half yearly financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 "Interim Financial Reporting", and give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and return of the Company.

·       The half yearly Management Report includes a fair value review of the information required by:

(a)      DTR 4.2.7R of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules, being an indication of important events that have occurred during the first six months of the financial year and their impact on the condensed set of financial statements and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six month of the year; and

(b)     DTR 4.2.8R of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules, being related party transactions that have taken place in the first six months of the current financial year and that have materially affected the financial position or performance of the company during that period; and any changes in the related party transactions described in the last Annual Report that could do so.

On behalf of the Board

Christopher M.W. Hill

Chairman

23 August 2011

 

End of Announcement


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