Although Stephens Scown LLP is already based in Cross Lane, it currently has five offices stretched over three streets in St Austell. The new three-storey premises on High Cross Street will bring the staff under one roof to create stronger and more cohesive teams to support their clients.
The whole project, which is costing almost £1.7 million, will take place in two phases and combines two historic buildings, transforming them into modern office space. The scheme has received the support of ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) Convergence investment to the tune of nearly £944,000 with £753,000 being provided by property investor DB Gilbert.
St Austell-based David Gilbert, well-known for the restoration of period buildings, is developing the new premises. He has over 30 years’ experience in the building industry in mid-Cornwall having established one of Cornwall’s leading building contractors.
Construction is expected to take around 12 months with initial works having started in August this year. The building will be gutted and completely reshaped internally with a new staircase in a different location and a lift shaft is currently being constructed.
Phase one is expected to be finished in early 2012 when the new reception area and a number of meeting rooms will be ready for use and phase two will begin thereafter.
Peter Marshall, head of Stephens Scown’s St Austell office, said: “These modern, fit-for-purpose offices will provide refreshed premises and a better infrastructure which will improve the overall client experience and working environment for our staff. It will give the office a real lift and enable us to build on the number of people employed by Stephens Scown over the coming years, with space for our planned expansion within the building itself.
“Our legal firm has a long history in the town which dates back to the 1930’s. It is where we were established and have been for a very long time and we have decided to reinforce our presence in St Austell by expanding and moving into new premises. Although there were a number of opportunities to move out of the town centre, we are firmly committed to St Austell and this is where we see our future. This is where we think we should be to best service the needs of our clients.”
The new building will provide around 700 square metres of office space and will be largely open-plan. The South West legal firm also has offices in Truro and Exeter..
For more information about Stephens Scown, visit www.stephens-scown.co.uk
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