The 10-year lease renewals will see the firm remain at its existing premises at 1 Friar Street and 33 Blagrave Street following negotiations with the landlords by Reading-based property consultants, Vail Williams.
Remarkably, Blandy & Blandy, founded in 1733, has been based at 1 Friar Street, home to the firm’s Wills, Probate, Tax & Trusts, Family law, Planning and Property teams, since 1798 when John Blandy took a lease from John Blagrave at the princely annual rent of 4 pounds.
Meanwhile, the firm’s Corporate & Commercial, Employment and Dispute Resolution teams have occupied the ground floor of 33 Blagrave Street since 2015.
Speaking of the deals, Blandy & Blandy’s Chairman Brenda Long, said: “We are delighted to recommit to both our premises in Reading, which provide fantastically situated locations for our clients and colleagues. With a heritage dating back to the 18th Century, this corner of Reading really does feel like home to our firm.
“It is exciting to be investing further in Reading during a time of real change for the town. Landmark developments including the likes of Station Hill and the introduction of Crossrail will see the area continue to go from strength to strength and we are very pleased to remain amongst these exciting changes.”
David Barden, partner at Reading-based property consultants, Vail Williams LLP, whose expertise was crucial in the successful conclusion of the lease negotiations on Blandy & Blandy’s behalf, added: “We’re pleased to have helped Blandy & Blandy retain their presence at both office locations in Reading, something which was incredibly important to the firm.
“Reading ranks second in the UK for growth and we’re witnessing increasing demand for office space in the town. We expect this to continue into 2020 as more and more businesses look to Reading and the wider Thames Valley, as a place to locate and do business in.”
Ms Long concluded: “We are focused on providing our clients with an outstanding experience that reflects our firm’s reputation and values, and this of course includes welcoming them to premises that we can be proud of.”
A period of refurbishment works are now underway at 1 Friar Street, which are due to be completed later this year. The firm’s offices will remain open for business as usual during this period.
Fryer Commercial acted for the landlord on 1 Friar Street.
