Ancora Law makes fourth move within Wykeland portfolio

The property-focused firm has become the latest occupier at Beverley’s Minster House, a deal that takes the 9,000 sq ft building refurbished by the Hull developer to 100% occupancy.

Minster House was built in 1816 as a warehouse used for the former Hodgson tannery, which remained one of Beverley’s largest employers until its closure in 1978.

The building was then used as offices in the following years, but was vacant for more than a year before Wykeland began a £550,000 redevelopment in 2019.

Wykeland’s interventions included a new entrance lobby, atrium and glass lift, making the building fully accessible for the first time, as well as adding new toilets and showers, and secure cycle storage.

The refurbished Minster House now offers more than 9,000 sq ft of offices over three floors and forms part of Wykeland’s Flemingate centre, which combines retail, leisure and commercial space.

Minster House was revamped to the tune of £550,000 by Wykeland. Credit: via Meehan Media

Having started almost five years ago as a one-man band, Ancora Law has grown to a six-strong team and has now moved from a 700 sq ft office to a 3,000 sq ft suite in the building, in the shadow of Beverley Minster.

Ancora started out in a Wykeland-managed co-working space and has moved through two further Wykeland facilities before arriving at Minster House.

Other occupiers include East Riding College, for adult education; and international supplier of raw materials and ingredients, BHJ Foods. There is also a co-working space called The Hive.

Matt Hudson, founder and managing director of Ancora Law, said: “We felt that now was the time to recognise our growth and invest in an office space that is fit for the future.”

John Gouldthorp, asset manager of Hull-based Wykeland, said: “We have worked closely with Matt and his team over the years, ensuring their office spaces help to foster growth and attract and retain talented people.

“Restoring and renovating old buildings, unlocking their potential, and turning them into attractive spaces that are fit for purpose for growing businesses like Ancora Law, is a key part of what we do at Wykeland.

“Minster House is an excellent example of this and we’re delighted that Ancora Law see it as the perfect fit for their business now and into the future.”