Davis Blank Furniss – the Manchester headquartered law firm – has relocated to Deva City Office Park from 90 Deansgate where it had been based since 1965. The firm has leased the 4,709 sq ft self-contained building (units 13 to 15) on a six-year lease.
The decision to move was taken last year, and it took the firm’s partnership several months to find and negotiate the right space. The rationale for the relocation was based on various factors including enabling better client access and providing a more flexible and technologically advanced working environment for staff.
Deva City Office Park is located on the site of the former Threlfall Brewery and comprises of 17 self-contained office units and the Grade II listed Tower Building, all are set within a unique courtyard environment. The development was purchased by Northwood Investors in 2011 and is home to a variety of occupiers including Handelsbanken and Domu Brands.
Davis Blank Furniss’ Glossop office is unaffected.
Kate Oldfield, Managing Partner of Davis Blank Furniss, said: “It was a big decision for us to move out of 90 Deansgate after so many years, but we knew the time was right. The relocation is an opportunity for us to create a more dynamic and nimble post Covid-19 business structure which is focussed on growth.”
Edwards & Co acted on behalf of Northwood Regional UK and are the joint agents on Deva City Office Park alongside CBRE and Canning O’Neill. Davis Blank Furniss was represented by Paul Mills at OBI Property.
Paul Mills from OBI’s Transactions and Asset Management team said: “It has been enjoyable working with DBF on their real estate strategy over the past year. The firm has been extremely forward-thinking in their response to the current pandemic, taking the decision to improve the quality of their working environment for staff and clients following their relocation.”
Oliver Woodall, Senior Surveyor at Edwards & Co, said: “We were delighted to secure the letting to Davis Blank Furniss LLP in the midst of challenging market conditions which is testament to the continued investment into the office park from the landlord. Interest in the vacant offices remains high as occupiers seek quality self-contained workspaces with onsite parking and fantastic road access.”
Iain Taylor, Northwood Regional UK, Director, added: “Since our acquisition of Deva City Office Park in 2011, we have been pleased with the flow of lettings in both the self-contained Brewery units and the Tower. Our investment into the park has generated some incredibly positive feedback and has proven key in attracting new occupiers. We are delighted to be welcoming Davis Blank Furniss.”
