A LAW firm has secured £500,000 funding to push forward with expansion and job creation plans.

Swinburne Maddison is transforming its base in Aykley Heads, on the outskirts of Durham City, after taking sole occupation of 10,000sq ft of space earlier this year.

Bosses expect the refurbishment, which will create open plan office spaces, meeting rooms and a staff and client lounge, to be completed early next year.

They added the changes will complement a recruitment campaign, which includes plans to appoint four qualified lawyers and two trainees.

Jonathan Moreland, partner and head of the dispute resolution team, said: “Until now, while extremely functional, our offices perhaps didn’t reflect the firm that we have become and the quality of work that we handle.

“We work across a wide range of businesses from PLCs to owner-managed small and medium-sized companies nationally and internationally, so our office space has to be suitable for all those that visit us.

“This significant investment recognises our commitment to remain in Durham and will also assist us in continuing to attract enthusiastic lawyers who share our drive and ambition.”