AN accountancy firm is targeting greater work after moving into a new office, The Northern Echo can reveal.

Tait Walker is expanding into Durham City.

Bosses say their new space in the Salvus House building, at Aykley Heads, can be a catalyst for fresh growth since it will complement existing sites in Newcastle, Teesside and Northumberland.

They added it will strengthen the company’s position as the region’s largest independent accountancy firm by providing scope to further support existing clients and the wider Durham business community across areas such as manufacturing, construction and technology.

Associate partner Paul Shields is leading the expansion alongside Michael Smith, the corporate finance team, and tax and wealth management staff.

Mr Shields said the move, due to be made official at an opening tomorrow, makes sense for Tait Walker, since it has completed the most corporate deals in Durham out of any financial or accountancy firm over the last decade.

He said: “We have been working with clients across Durham for many years, and continue to grow our offering in this area, especially in corporate finance and specialist tax.

“With the launch of new funds in the area, including the £20m Finance Durham Fund, it’s an exciting time for local businesses and an ideal time for us to have a new Durham home.

“Our office is there to support our existing clients and to help businesses in County Durham to grow and succeed.

“Our experience can help companies to access funding and support and we are looking forward to meeting more ambitious business owners across County Durham.”

The company’s deals include Middlesbrough College’s acquisition of NECC Training, the former training arm of the North East England Chamber of Commerce, and Vertu Motors’ agreement for Darlington’s Blacks Autos.

Andrew Moorby, managing partner, said that work was proof of the firm’s industry standing, adding its new office will provide a springboard for similar success.

He added: “It’s a great opportunity for Paul and the team to build on our existing Durham client base.

“We work with some excellent County Durham businesses and this office opening is hopefully going to make us even more accessible and let local businesses know we are there to support them with every business stage.”

The new office coincides with Tait Walker’s 80th year and expansion of its head office in Newcastle, which has added more than 9,000sq ft of space and allowed for further recruitment.