Regional law firm Foot Anstey’s Bristol-based real estate group has advised on a major housing scheme in Berkshire involving the site of the former National School of Government.
The deal involved housebuilder Berkeley Homes and Audley Retirement buying Sunningdale Park, near Ascot.
The 70-acre site includes 209,896 sq ft of existing accommodation, including Northcote House, a Grade II listed neo-Georgian mansion, training accommodation with associated lecture theatres, residential accommodation and sports facilities. 
Sunningdale Park has been government owned since 1947. Previously known as the Civil Service College, the school closed in 2012.
It is likely to be redeveloped as a residential and retirement scheme by Berkeley Homes and Audley Retirement, subject to planning permission from Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.
Foot Anstey’s real estate group Martin Hirst, pictured, was the lead partner on the transaction.
He said: “We’re delighted to have acted on this transaction which will hopefully assist with the shortage of good quality homes, and make a lasting contribution to the landscape and to the communities our client is helping to create.
“Sunningdale is a remarkable site in a unique setting and Berkeley and Audley will no doubt do a great job in generating long-term value by creating a successful and sustainable living environment.”
To meet the growing demand of Foot Anstey’s residential developer clients, the firm recently recruited a team of four lawyers to join the firm’s real estate group and opened an office in Southampton last September.
The firm also has offices in Taunton, Exeter, Plymouth, Truro and London.
