Latest News | 13 April 2021
Freeths commits to Cardinal Square after office review
Law firm Freeths has announced its commitment to its Derby base following a review of its office portfolio.
Going forward, the firm it to adopt a new, hybrid working strategy – and has redesigned the space at its 2,271 sq ft Cardinal Square offices to suit.
The firm reviewed its office portfolio, taking into account the efficiency of agile working, the preferences of employees and clients, as well as accommodating the firm’s progressive and ongoing growth.
The review concluded that, while remote working is likely to remain a core element in the future, the ability for clients and staff alike to physically come together and collaborate, as well as have meeting space, remained important to the company.
Janet Rhodes, managing partner at Freeths’ Derby office, said: “The pandemic has proven we can still offer excellent and immediate service, while working remotely and our lawyers are enjoying the benefits of a more flexible working environment.
“Moving to a more modern and progressive office platform will ensure benefits for both clients and our people, which is why we feel it is important to move forward and continue to embrace the office and all the benefits which technology offers.”
Landlord Nurton Developments said it believed many more firms would follow Freeths’ example as they embrace a new way of working.
David Dyas, asset manager at Nurton Developments, said: “Freeths has been a long-standing occupier and we’re pleased to accommodate them and work closely to enable them to create a modern, new creative and collaborative space for their employees.
“The fact they’ve signed up again to the building says a lot for its layout and location as one of the most recognisable landmark offices in Derby, which is reflected by a number of long-term occupiers secured at Cardinal Square during its lifetime.”
Freeths is the second occupier to renew their lease at the building in recent months, with CityFibre also increasing its requirement and taking a five-year commitment, having originally secured a short-term serviced office agreement at Cardinal Square.
David said: “We have always been flexible and more lateral in our thinking as landlords, and this philosophy has allowed us to retain and continue to improve our occupancy levels during the pandemic.”
