Law Society rules out sale of president’s residence

The Law Society has decided not to sell 60 Carey Street, the historic townhouse it owns around the corner from its headquarters in Chancery Lane.

Current president Nick Emmerson revealed last October that he personally was committed to disposing of the listed 18th-century three-storey building, which is used as the president’s official London residence. But following a meeting of the Law Society Council this week, it has been confirmed that the house will instead be redeveloped. 

A Society spokesperson said: ‘The Law Society’s Council has approved a recommendation of the Law Society’s Board to retain and redevelop its property at 60 Carey Street to maximise the potential of this heritage asset.’

On the likely cost and scope of the redevelopment, the spokesperson added: ‘The Society has carried out some initial investigations into the estimated cost of redevelopment but this remains commercially confidential until contracts are in place. To be transparent with our members, we would expect to confirm project costs once they have been agreed.’

Presidents House was built in 1731-2 as a business and townhouse for Richard Foley, an MP and bencher of Lincoln’s Inn. Emmerson described the house as unsuitable for families - it is also reputed to be haunted.

Bought by the Society in 1929, the house will remain the president’s official residence.

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