By Jenna Cairney

LEGAL FIRM Blackadders last night confirmed 44 of its staff are to be made redundant and its offices in Kirriemuir and Carnoustie will close.

The company has been engaged in a strategic review and 30-day redundancy consultation as the credit crunch impacted on business. That has resulted in 32 employees losing their jobs under a points-scoring system, while a further dozen accepted voluntary redundancy.

Johnston Clark, managing partner at Blackadders Solicitors, said, “Like many other businesses, we have experienced a sharp downturn in property and other markets as a result of the credit crunch. However, we do have a strong business, offering a wide range of services to our clients, and in order to secure our long-term future we have undertaken a strategic review of our entire organisation.

“As a result of this we have restructured our business and will now consolidate much of our work at our main office in Dundee and our offices in Forfar and Arbroath will also remain open to deal with all aspects of client business.”

In July, the firm unveiled plans to cut its staff by up to 25% as the credit crunch affected the local property market, though exact numbers were not known until yesterday.

The Courier reported at the start of the month that staff morale was at rock bottom after letters were hand-delivered to employees. Some were told their jobs were safe, while others were given an “at risk” letter.

All employees affected by redundancy have been told and notice periods and redundancy payments have been agreed.

The company also said in a statement issued last night the number of compulsory redundancies had been “lower than anticipated.” Some 165 jobs have been secured.

There had been rumours the Bank Street branch in Kirriemuir was to be axed but the firm declined to confirm or deny the matter until the 30-day consultation period ended.

Now, it has been announced it is one of two Angus branches to close.

“Regrettably, this consolidation has resulted in the closure of two of our offices, in Kirriemuir and Carnoustie,” said Mr Clark.

“This has been an extremely difficult time for the firm and everyone involved; however, we are confident that following this review we can take our business forward successfully.”