Top 100 law firm Hugh James has launched a new office in Southampton, bringing a team of legal specialists to a prime city centre office location at 2 Charlotte Place.

Hugh James has taken tenancy of a 3,500 sq ft suite on the 5^th floor of the building, which has recently undergone a full refurbishment by Vibe Business Interiors, to create open plan working space, client meeting areas and breakout areas.

Hugh James, which also has offices in Cardiff, London and Plymouth, is moving its growing South Coast team into the space as the firm continues to grow its presence regionally and nationally.

The new office accommodates the firm’s expanding asbestos team which, last year, announced a series of senior hires, including three new Partners based in the Solent. Working alongside its national team, they serve clients across the south of England and support local charities, including through its long-standing partnership with HASAG, the asbestos disease support group, and through membership of its expert legal panel.

Earlier this year, the Contested Wills, Trusts, and Estates team welcomed Southampton-based Partner, Victoria Jones, to the firm. Further new appointments are expected to be made across Hugh James’s business and claimant divisions, as it introduces new teams into its Southampton location over time.

Commenting on the move, Alun Jones, Managing Partner at Hugh James, said: “Our new office space in Southampton is fantastic and we can’t wait to welcome more of our clients and colleagues to this impressive space. The city is a perfect location for us to use as a base for our southern teams as we continue to expand our offering across the UK. We have exciting plans and the South Coast is pivotal for delivering our strategy over the next five years and beyond.

”Rachel Lacklison, Asset Manager at Kingsbridge Estates, said: “We are excited to add Hugh James to the impressive list of occupiers who have chosen to work at 2 Charlotte Place. We enjoyed working closely with the firm to fit the space out to the team’s precise needs before the move. All of us at Kingsbridge Estates wish Hugh James and its people the very best for future success in their new home.

’Kingsbridge Estates acquired 2 Charlotte Place in November 2019 and has since invested in major refurbishment works to create a stunning double height, glazed reception area, new business lounge and sustainability features including low energy lighting, electric vehicle charging points, and secure bicycle parking.

Hugh James joins global financial services provider Utmost International, including infrastructure consultants AECOM, planning and development consultancy Turley and the law firm BLM at 2 Charlotte Place.

Some space remains available for let in a range of suite sizes from 766 sq ft up to 7,234 sq ft.

Vail Williams and Realest are letting agents for 2 Charlotte Place.