Latimer Hinks Solicitors, a feature of Darlington’s high street for more than 130 years, has reinforced its commitment to the town following a substantial investment in its offices and staff facilities.
The most recent phase of the extensive refurbishment project, undertaken by 186 Property Solutions, created a modern breakout area designed to elevate the working environment for its 50-strong team and provide an improved client experience.
It included the installation of a high-spec kitchen, while previous work focused on ensuring its Priestgate headquarters were modernised whilst respecting its historic character and heritage. The final phase, involving the last remaining offices, is scheduled for completion early next year.
The updates encompassed meeting rooms, the boardroom, reception area, washrooms, and office spaces, as well as the basement and archive vaults. The project also involved extensive new flooring, joinery, and electrical work, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics throughout.
This latest investment follows the law firm’s 2022 expansion into Coniscliffe House on Coniscliffe Road, a move necessary to accommodate its growing team. It reflects the firm’s ongoing commitment to supporting the vibrancy of Darlington’s town centre, as other businesses relocate to out-of-town areas.
Latimer Hinks is a North East law firm with a national presence providing specialist and bespoke services in private client, property and agricultural law for more than 125 years. Its range of expertise covers legal issues surrounding commercial, residential and agricultural property, farming partnerships and land owners, wills, lasting powers of attorney, trusts, probate, long-term care and tax planning.
Liz Armstrong, Managing Director at Latimer Hinks Solicitors, said: “Darlington is part of the fabric of Latimer Hinks, and we are proud to continue investing in our town and staff. As Darlington’s profile grows with major developments like the new Treasury North office, we’re growing with it and this investment in our Priestgate office and the expansion into Coniscliffe House reflects our confidence in the town centre.
“Choosing a Darlington-based firm like 186 Property Solutions to carry out the work also underlines our dedication to supporting local businesses and the community that we’ve been a part of for over 130 years.”
Mike Besterfield, a Director at 186 Property Solutions, a commercial contractor specialising in the refurbishment, renovation, and enhancement of commercial properties, said: “Working with Latimer Hinks on this project has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase our expertise in creating high-quality commercial spaces.
“One of the key challenges of the project was working within a very old building constructed across various levels. Despite these complexities, all works were completed while the building remained fully operational.”