The research found that Square Mile is still the place to be for large law firms, with most of the top 10 firms saying a City location was of prime importance. And 50% of the firms surveyed said that their office location was an important factor in attracting the best staff. However, a few firms do not entirely rule out a move to Docklands if rents in the City continue to rise.

Although there is still a general reluctance among fee earners to work in an open plan environment, 73% of those interviewed suggested that the most important issue in terms of space occupancy is efficiency, to give higher density levels and reduce occupancy costs.

Chris Jones, head of occupational agency and development at Kinney Green, said: 'Lawyers in London - like many other business sectors - are facing an intense period of transition and evolution. This is already impacting on both their property requirements and what they demand from buildings.'