Expanding law firm moves into historic former newspaper building

 “This new office is part of our plans for expansion. We’re delighted to be open.” - Kevin McGrath, Managing Partner, Smith Partnership

Smith Partnership, one of the region’s most prominent legal firms, has officially opened its new office in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent

The firm - which has ambitious expansion plans - has taken up residence in the iconic former offices of The Sentinel newspaper on Bethesda Street in Hanley, a building rich in local heritage. 

The new premises were formally opened during a special ribbon-cutting event attended by the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Councillor Lyn Sharpe, alongside Kevin McGrath, Managing Partner at Smith Partnership. 

With offices already in Derby, Leicester, Burton on Trent and Swadlincote, the move marks a significant milestone in the firm’s regional expansion and underscores its long-term commitment to Stoke-on-Trent. 

Located in Alexander House, previously the headquarters of The Sentinel newspaper the building has a special place in the history of the city. Originally established in the 19th century as the Bethesda School it operated for many years as the editorial and production centre for the daily newspaper, serving as a cornerstone of local journalism. 

Mr McGrath highlighted the importance of the office opening, announcing: “We have had a presence in the city for over thirty years but the opening of this new office allows to offer our full range services to the people and businesses of Stoke. Our philosophy is always to position ourselves centrally in all of the towns and cities where we operate not just to provide easy access for our clients but to provide real support for the efforts that so many put in to make those centres thrive.“

Speaking at the opening event, Councillor Lyn Sharpe welcomed the firm’s investment in the city centre, saying: “I think it's great that Smiths has moved up to the city centre. I'm a local girl, and this lovely building, before it was the Sentinel building, was Bethesda Sunday school. 

“This year we are celebrating being a city for 100 years, on the 5th June, King George the fifth in 1925 rocked up in Stoke and gave us city centre, so it’s a party year for everyone here in Stoke and you're all part of the party. 

“I think it's great this building has a new lease of life, in a beautiful town in a wonderful city, and on evenings like this I’m very proud to be a Stokie.” 

The firm aims to have 50 employees based at the office delivering legal services across a comprehensive range of sectors including commercial, family law, criminal defence, conveyancing, employment law, private client, clinical negligence and personal injury. 

The new Hanley office is expected to bolster the firm's reach across Staffordshire, improving client access and creating new employment opportunities. 

The office is now fully operational and open to the public, providing face-to-face legal support for individuals and businesses in the area. 

For more information about our services or to make an appointment, please contact our team by telephone on 01782 324454, complete our contact form, or send us an email via info@smithpartnership.co.uk. 

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