Venmore expands specialist buildings team

Venmore has recruited two architectural assistants in order to meet demand for its historic and listed buildings project management team.

Jamie Mullin and Benjamin Kent have joined the firm's building consultancy team, which specialises in managing the restoration and conversion of listed buildings, properties in conservation areas and cultural buildings.

Venmore partner Peter Brack said Liverpool's city centre building boom in particular is fuelling demand for the service.

"Liverpool has a vast collection of listed, historic and cultural buildings," he said. "With increasing demand for business and residential accommodation, there is a need for these buildings to be adapted for modern requirements. We have recently provided advice on more than 20 historic buildings with a project value of over £40m."

Brack said recent changes to legislation mean there is now a huge amount of law for developers to comply with.

"The sheer amount of legislation now covering access, fire precautions and energy conservation means there is a greater weight of planning and consideration to deal with," he said. "This can present major challenges to historic building owners who need in depth expertise to help manage conversions smoothly and efficiently."

Venmore announced its plans to expand its commercial division, starting with a new Southport office, at the end of 2007 following the relaunch of its brand.

The new Venmore brand incorporates Venmore Thomas & Jones, Dears Brack, Phillips & Sons, Ideal Lettings and Property Link. The various parts of the group include chartered surveyors, estate agents, valuers, auctioneers and property managers.