Irwin Mitchell’s Real Estate Team In Leeds Advised on Deal

A high profile property development which has received on-going legal advice from the Leeds office of Irwin Mitchell, has won the ‘Game Changer’ award at this year’s Insider Yorkshire Property Awards.

The former Terry’s factory in York, dubbed ‘The Chocolate Works’, was bought by Henry Boot Developments, from owners GHT Developments (Grantside) in 2013

Head of Real Estate in Leeds, John Flathers along with recently promoted,  Real Estate partner, James Knowles, advised Henry Boot on the initial land acquisition and sale of 13.5 acres of adjoining land to York housebuilder, David Wilson Homes to create 229 new homes. James has continued to advise Henry Boot on the scheme including the joint venture with Manchester based, residential developer  PJL Livesey, in respect of  the conversion of the  Grade II listed main factory building into up to 173 high-quality apartments and on the sale of the former Terry’s HQ building to Springfield Healthcare Group for the development of  a care village. Advice has also been provided by Irwin Mitchell’s Corporate, IP/IT and Litigation teams.

Construction has commenced in respect of both the main factory building and the former HQ building with the first occupants of the apartments to the former factory building, expected in June 2016.

In its explanation for giving the prize to Chocolate Works, the award judges said:  “The sheer scale of the Chocolate Works is significant. The complex planning and regeneration of around 250,000 sq ft of iconic grade II-listed buildings has provided employment, housing and leisure facilities to the city of York. The design of the main factory was based on enhancing the original features of the iconic building, without compromising on the quality modern facilities.”

Expert Opinion

“This is a thoroughly deserved award for the Chocolate Works scheme and we have been delighted to work on the development. It is a fantastic project that has successfully unlocked construction jobs, created new homes and new commercial opportunities and will no doubt long term benefits to the local area.” James Knowles - Partner

Victoria Quarter and Victoria Gate along with Kirkstall Forge won the other Game Changer awards.