Negotiating team worked closely with college throughout refurbishment

Oct 17 2007 by Iain Laing, The Journal

WATSON Burton has advised on Newcastle College’s £8.6m refurbishment of Sandyford Building.

The Newcastle solicitor’s property team advised the college throughout negotiations with the University of Northumbria about the comprehensive new look of the five-storey property, which stands within the university’s city centre campus. Property lawyer Deborah Jameson negotiated closely with the university and its advisors to gain agreement for the high profile “brise soleil” entrance feature.

Communication and agreement between the parties was key to getting the go-ahead for the refurbishment of Newcastle College’s only city centre building. The building is Newcastle College’s business centre, which the college intends to be the driver for regional business innovation and growth.

The ground floor includes commercial businesses such as a florist, hair salon, art gallery, and brasserie.

The top floor is a smart conference and banqueting area with rooms seating eight to 150 people. This is a new facility for the college, to encourage local businesses to use the college as a base for city centre conferences, seminars and meetings.

Jackie Fisher, Newcastle College principal, said: “Sandyford Building’s successful refurbishment was extremely important to the College, and to the region’s business community. Watson Burton’s commitment to the project and expert negotiations helped to get this important project off the ground, and completed within a tight timetable.”

Deborah Jameson said: “We were involved with Sandyford Building from the outset, which helped to speed progress. It is great news that the building opened in good time for the new academic year. It is a first-class facility for local businesses, training courses and city centre visitors.”