SHW have advised Birketts on the acquisition of the third floor of One Suffolk Way, Sevenoaks, Kent, as part of the law firm’s expansion into the South East region.
The full service, UK Top 50 legal firm has taken the 3,825 sq ft office space on a new five-year lease. With five offices already across East Anglia, Essex and central London, this new space was required to support the firm’s expansion into Kent and the South East following its merger with local firm Bachelors Solicitors.
Thomas Tarn, Associate at SHW, said: “We started the search for the right space last year, working closely with the Birketts team to identify their needs in terms of office size, specification, and location. At the early stages of the search confidentiality was crucial, and by conducting the search on behalf Birketts we were able to keep their identity under wraps until negotiations were well progressed. Confirming One Suffolk Way as the preferred site, we then entered into negotiations with the landlord, negotiating the best terms for our client. In parallel, SHW’s BCD team commenced a pre-acquisition survey to identify any repair and Health & Safety issues in need of rectification.”
RO Properties’ One Suffolk Way has recently undergone a full refurbishment of all common areas, as well as the third floor. Providing generous on-site car parking, the office space also benefits from cycle parking, a shower room, lockers and changing facilities and is the first Fitwel certified building in Sevenoaks.
Thomas adds: “Identifying a high-quality office space, where employees want to be was high on the agenda for Birketts, alongside the ability to grow its team within the new space. As well as the strong specification, the building’s prominent position in Sevenoaks town centre provides convenience for visiting clients and for staff.
“We very much enjoyed working with Birketts to accommodate their expansion and look forward to continuing this relationship as their business continues to grow.”
Jeanette Wheeler, Partner and Head of Employment and Immigration at Birketts, who is leading the firm’s expansion into the South East, said: “I’m really excited to be bringing our high quality, pro-active, client-centric and friendly brand of legal advice to the people and businesses of Kent and beyond. This is an extremely positive time for the firm, and our new office in Sevenoaks is the perfect base for our continued growth. We look forward to inviting our existing and new clients and contacts in the region to visit and meet with us. Our thanks goes to SHW for their assistance in our expansion.”
RO Properties was advised by Michael Rogers.