Newton-le-Willows-based Network Space is in the process of delivering more than 2.5m sq ft of new industrial development across the North of England over the next five years. Tony McDonough reports

Accountancy firm Grant Thornton’s Liverpool team has secured North West developer Network Space as a new client following a change in ownership at the family property firm.

Newton-le-Willows-based Network Space is in the process of delivering more than 2.5m sq ft of new industrial development across the North of England over the next five years.

Chief executive Richard Ainscough, completed the takeover of the business from his father last month. He has appointed Grant Thornton on a brief which will see the Liver Building-headquartered property and construction team support the business as it embarks on new era.

Network Space has posted record profits in each of the last two years. The group is now investing heavily in innovative technology and IT systems. It is also shifting its investment strategy, in a move which will see the traditionally self-financed group explore potential partnerships with external investors.

Neil Sturmey, partner at Grant Thornton’s Liverpool office, said: “It’s doubly-gratifying to be working with a family business which is supporting a sector crucial to the economic growth of our region.

“It’s really important that we work closely with Richard’s team, to supplement their own expertise with our strategic input and ideas as well as connecting the business with our client and sector network.”

Mr Ainscough added: “We are at the beginning of a new chapter, not only for our business but also the industrial property sector.

“With continued advances in technology the sector will continue to evolve and in order to continue our success we must remain agile and focused, as must our advisers. Neil and his team impressed us with their proactive approach to advising clients as well as their depth of sector resource and knowledge base.”