Commercial and residential property specialist Ancora Law has relocated to Minster House in Beverley, a building with a rich historical backdrop. Refurbished comprehensively by a leading commercial property developer, this move signifies a significant milestone in Ancora’s growth trajectory.
Having grown from a one-man firm to a six-strong team in just five years, Ancora Law continues to provide premium legal advice and customer service, utilising modern technologies. Under the shadow of Beverley Minster, the firm now occupies a 3,000 sq ft suite within Minster House, a building dating back to 1816.
Initially a warehouse for the former Hodgson Tannery, Minster House became vacant for more than a year before its restoration commenced in 2019. The property developer invested over £550,000 in refurbishing the building, including a new entrance lobby, atrium, glass lift, new toilets, showers, and secure cycle storage, transforming it into an accessible and functional space for businesses.
The upgraded Minster House offers over 9,000 sq ft of office space on three floors within a thriving centre combining retail, leisure, and commercial venues. Founder and Managing Director Matt Hudson noted the firm’s progression through three different offices managed by the same property developer, each slightly larger to accommodate their expansion.
Matt Hudson stated, “We have grown year on year since our inception at the beginning of 2020. Our office moves have always been fairly reactionary – with each new hire, we have moved to a slightly bigger unit. Now was the time to recognise our growth and invest in an office space that is fit for the future.”
Ancora Law’s new office space features an open plan with a large meeting room, large sash windows, and high ceilings as a nod to its industrial heritage. Other occupiers of Minster House include East Riding College, BHJ Foods, and The Hive, a dedicated co-working space.
Emphasising the firm’s innovative approach, Mr Hudson said, “All of our practices were built with remote working in mind, so we could function seamlessly in those early months [of the pandemic]. As a result, everything we do is in the cloud.”
The location of Minster House provides additional advantages such as proximity to shops, cafés, restaurants, and excellent transport links, including Beverley Rail Station. As stated by Mr Hudson, “I want to provide a space where our clients feel they can approach us and we can connect with them in person. I also want to encourage our staff to be approachable too.”
The property developer’s Asset Manager highlighted the benefits of restoring and renovating old buildings, ensuring they meet the needs of growing businesses. The continued support from the property developer has played a crucial role in Ancora Law’s development, offering office spaces that foster growth and help attract and retain talented individuals.
Mr Hudson further remarked, “Whenever we have needed a larger office space, the property developer has been attentive and helped us find exactly what we need. We are delighted to have our new home at Minster House and look forward to many successful years here.”
Ancora Law’s relocation to Minster House epitomises its growth and forward-thinking approach. The firm is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory, benefiting from a historically enriched yet modern workspace.