Ambitious St Johns Buildings seals funding deal

BARRISTERS’ chambers St Johns Buildings is to revamp its premises in Manchester and Liverpool and upgrade its IT systems after securing a £2.2m funding package.
 
Manchester-based SJB has grown significantly this year following mergers with Sheffield’s Paradise Chambers and Liverpool-based India Buildings earlier this year.  It now has 250 barristers and 70 support staff. 

The funding, which has been provided by NatWest’s commercial banking team in Preston, will be used to enhance the SJB property portfolio; by developing new premises for the SJB Liverpool set on Vernon Street and refurbishing existing its premises on St John Street,  Manchester.

Paula Blackshaw, St Johns Buildings’ head of finance said: “NatWest’s financial support has proved invaluable.  It ensured that both the Liverpool and Sheffield mergers progressed on time and has also given us the financial headroom to make improvements to our premises and IT infrastructure. 

“Given the size of the enlarged chambers both of these areas are crucial to its future development.”

Sue Haslem, Relationship Director at NatWest, said: “The Liverpool and Sheffield mergers have created a powerhouse in the legal market and ensures SJB is well positioned to capitalise on the changing legal landscape. 

” NatWest’s relationship with SJB spans almost 20 years and we are delighted to provide financial support for their plans.”