Banner Jones advises on acquisition of historic Cannon Mill in Chesterfield regeneration project
Banner Jones Solicitors has advised property investors James Middleton and Tom Marriott on the acquisition of the historic Cannon Mill building in Brampton, Chesterfield, marking the latest step in the pair’s programme to regenerate long-neglected buildings across the town.
The firm’s Commercial Team supported the buyers throughout the transaction, drawing on the expertise of Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services team, which advises on matters including commercial property, commercial leases, company conveyancing, tenancy agreements and business acquisitions.
Drawing on its specialist expertise, the Banner Jones team helped the buyers navigate a number of transaction complexities, particularly in relation to legal easements and the site comprising part of several titles within a larger estate owned by the seller.
James and Tom, lifelong friends with strong connections to Chesterfield, focus on restoring historic buildings that have fallen into disrepair and bringing them back into productive use through sympathetic redevelopment.
Their latest project is Cannon Mill, an 18th-century industrial building on Catherine Street that has stood vacant for almost 70 years. The property, purchased for £130,000, dates back to 1775 and was historically used for boring and casting cannons, cannonballs and other armaments.
The pair plan to transform the site into a hybrid working space, creating modern workspace while preserving key heritage features. The development will retain the building’s historic iron waterwheel and will be subject to the necessary heritage and planning approvals. Works are expected to take around a year.
Matthew Maiden, Commercial Property Solicitor at Banner Jones Solicitors said: “We were delighted to advise James and Tom on the acquisition of Cannon Mill. Their commitment to restoring historic buildings and creating high-quality workspace is helping to bring underused properties back into the local economy, and it was a pleasure to support them in completing the transaction.”
The duo said the project forms part of their wider ambition to reinvest in their hometown by restoring historic buildings and creating high-quality, flexible spaces for businesses while respecting the heritage of the properties.
Tom Marriott, Director at Middleton Structures, added: "Banner Jones are ace – providing a quick turnaround and great service – advising us to make sure we buy the right properties. They are fundamental to our success. As a business, we want to get back to a point where Chesterfield is as thriving as it once was. Taking old dilapidated buildings and turning them into vibrant workspaces, helping local businesses grow so that we can all benefit.”
Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services team regularly advises businesses and investors on commercial property transactions and business acquisitions, supporting clients through complex legal processes while helping to facilitate growth and investment.
(Pictured L to R: Tom Marriott of Middleton Structures and Matthew Maiden of Banner Jones Solicitors)