Sarah Thompson
Leading a team of lawyers who manage the real estate portfolios for major corporates, public sector bodies and investors. Our work ranges from routine transactions to major strategic projects such as head office relocations or regearing leases in an investment.
Tel: +44 (0)121 214 1089
Email: sarah_thompson@wragge.com
Services: Real Estate
Best brains in...
The core of the work we do is landlord and tenant-based. There has been a lot of change in this area over recent years - driven by both Parliament and self-regulation of the property industry - and it seems that this will continue.
What is one of your career highlights?
A highlight would definitely be the work that I have done at Royal Exchange - a luxury retail scheme in the City. The scheme has been very actively managed, which has led to a lot of interesting work. Last year I completed lettings to Cartier Bvlgari and Hermes within the space of a few months. Another example is my work with English Heritage, a client which I have worked with over a number of years. It has combined dealing with unusual, often wonderful buildings and working with people who have a great commitment to the built environment.
From a huge variety of work, another highlight would have to be the acquisition of Wrest Park in Bedfordshire in 2006, a grade 1 listed mansion with amazing gardens.
What has been the most challenging job you have worked on?
The acquisition of the Daedalus airfield for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). It was a challenge because of the number and variety of issues, including access, unexploded ordnance and Japanese knotweed to name but a few. The issues that arose required analysis and then a solution. This was a strategic acquisition for MCA as Daedalus is one of the three sites for its search and rescue helicopter operations across the country... and yes, I did get a ride in a helicopter once the deal had been completed!
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