Articles From the Team

Demand for Commercial Property Solicitors across Yorkshire

2014 witnesses an increase in demand for commercial property and construction solicitors in Leeds and West Yorkshire following heavy investment in the area.

The property and construction market in Yorkshire is busier than ever which is good news for law firms as the demand for property and construction lawyers is at an all time high.

Commercial law firms in Leeds are complaining of a shortage of quality lawyers to cover this increased demand. They are effectively feeling the effects of the recession when law firms recruited cautiously, redeployed staff into other areas and made redundancies.

2013 was a game-changing year for Leeds and saw major new developments such as Trinity Leeds, Western Europe’s only retail and leisure centre to open in 2013. The opening of the first direct arena has bought a world-class concert and entertainment venue to the city. The UK’s first purpose-built arena features a unique ‘super theatre’ design, the first of its kind in Europe, and is already acting as a catalyst for investment in and regeneration of the city’s Northern Quarter. The momentum continues into 2014, when construction will begin at the new £130m Victoria Gate retail development in the city centre, which will house more than 30 high end retailers, anchored by a flagship John Lewis store.

As a result of this significant investment in the area, hundreds of new roles for property and construction have been created and many departments have found themselves pushed to breaking point.

We are seeking solicitors at all levels but the demand is highest for mid level lawyers with two to four years’ PQE. This is a typical example of low supply resulting in a high demand and lawyers can expect to be remunerated accordingly!

This is good news for lawyers who have had a tough time throughout the recession and as recruiters, we are confident giving candidates good, positive news when they call us looking for new positions as most commercial disciplines are busy right now. We are keen to hear from solicitors at all levels and are happy to discuss opportunities on a professional, confidential basis.