The growing commercial property team at Swinburne Maddison LLP, based in Durham, has notable experience advising on both residential and commercial developments. Acting for tenants and landowners, religious entities, and developers, the group also adeptly advises on property transactions, portfolio management work, commercial leases, and landlord and tenant matters. Practice head Victoria Walton leads on property-related commercial mandates, including site acquisitions and inter-developer agreements; she also has particular expertise in social housing matters. Gillian Moir is another key name for acquisitions and refinancings, as well as corporate support instructions, while Kate Stephenson is the name to note for developer clients and landlords seeking advice relating to commercial property portfolio management.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'My main contact is Kate Stephenson who always delivers a friendly and professional service, keeping control of the process throughout. I have carried out many varied property deals with Kate and she always explains and simplifies the most complex areas in a way I understand them. Using her expertise to examine, uncomplicate and explain in terms I understand. Kate is a top-class performer in what can be a tricky and complicated area, advising on property contracts.'
'We consistently rely on the team at Swinburne Maddison to provide consistent, relevant and good advice on any matter we bring to them for assistance. The team has a keen commercial awareness which I've not experienced with other firms dealing with similar issues.'
'Victoria Walton is an exceptional solicitor and has worked with us for many years, which gives her a keen understanding of our business, needs and aspirations.'
'Swinburne Maddison are always on hand to answer any queries and provide relevant updates. They have an excellent reputation and provide unparalleled advice. They have an easy quoting system and onboarding system.'
‘Kate Stephenson is a responsive and commercially aware client relationship holder. ’
'Victoria Walton is especially outstanding, as she is always available and works to tight deadlines.'
'Kate Stephenson has acted for me for many years and combines a vast knowledge of the law with an understanding of the commercial needs of our companies. She is a pleasure to deal with and my first point of contact when I need advice.'
Key clients
- Durham Cathedral
- The Esh Group
- Ramside Estates Limited
- Beyond Housing Limited
- Theakston Estates Limited and associated companies
- TJD Properties Limited
- Karbon Homes Limited
- Atom Bank plc
- Handelsbanken
- St Cuthberts Walk Limited
Work highlights
Acting on behalf of an engineering company in an agreement for lease, conditional on major construction works, and subsequent lease of its newly built premises at a rent of circa £300k per annum.
Acting on behalf of Theakston Land Limited and Theakston Estate Company Limited as promoter and connected development company in the sale of two parcels of land for the development of 200 residential units at Lambton Park Chester le Street to Bellway Homes Limited and Robertson Homes Limited in deals worth circa £15m.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Victoria Walton
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Gillian Moir
Practice head
Victoria Walton
Other key lawyers
Gillian Moir; Kate Stephenson