Magic circle firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer has confirmed the location of its new headquarters when it leaves London’s traditional legal district. It has signed a 20-year lease on a yet-to-be completed 37-storey skyscraper in the heart of the City.

The firm, currently based in Fleet Street, will occupy an initial area of 255,000 sq. ft and will be based on floors 20-32 of 100 Bishopsgate.

Construction of the tower, close to London Liverpool Street and many rival City firms, began in 2015 and is set to be completed in 2018. Freshfields is expected to take occupancy in 2021.

Last year, the Gazette reported that the firm had kept quiet over reports that it was due to relocate to the building but today’s announcement confirms the move.

Julian Long, the firm’s London managing partner, said: ‘We have taken a long-term lease in 100 Bishopsgate, underlining our commitment to our successful London office. 100 Bishopsgate offers a location and the facilities we need to deliver exceptional service to our clients.’

Developer Brookfield Property Partners has already announced that it has let the first seven floors of the building to the Royal Bank of Canada.