A FIRM of accountants and business advisors is aiming for an even brighter future this year, thanks to new purpose-built premises on a business park on the outskirts of Durham City.

Westwaters has been forging a stronger and more personalised service with a growing number of clients in recent years.

Now the company is looking to provide improved facilities for them with a move out of town to a new fully serviced office on the Belmont Business Park.

Car parking and access problems in the city were key factors forcing the firm to seek more convenient accommodation.

The company, run by business partners John Galley and Jamie Westwater, is set for a strong performance this year and will meet expanding needs by taking its Durham practice in Old Elvet to the Belmont site.

With a substantial increase in new business and a growing staff of 20 personnel, based in offices in Durham City and Sunderland, the partners have decided that the move presents the best opportunity to benefit their clients' needs.

Mr Galley said: "We have experienced a period of substantial growth with new clients on board and new staff this year to cater for all their needs. We pride ourselves on working very closely with our clients to ensure that we meet all of their individual requirements.

"As the business has grown rapidly in recent years, we have been looking at moving out of the centre of Durham City where car parking and access to our office have become increasingly difficult.

"Clients will be able to come and see us without worrying about fighting their way through city centre traffic, and relax with ample free car parking in a new bespoke office just a stone's throw from both the A1 and A690."

Substantial new business for Westwaters has brought four additional jobs in recent months but the company is seeking to ensure that, as it grows, it continues to provide clients with the personal touch.

"Of course we are ambitious and keen to grow the business," said Mr Galley.

"But we are equally keen to let our clients know that they can always get the very best service and dedicated help from us whenever they need it."