Law firm Irwin Mitchell has cemented its commitment to the North East through expansion into new offices and a number of new appointments.

The business, which has operated in the region for 21 years, has relocated to Wellbar Central, following the acquisition of Silk Family Law earlier this year. Irwin Mitchell has signed a new multi-year lease on a full floor of office space at the Gallowgate building, moving more than 100 staff.

The firm has also made several new appointments and internal promotions, including Kate Nicklin, who rejoins as legal director, Justina Molloy, who has also joined the Newcastle office as a legal director having previously worked in the Cambridge office, and Laura Mcilduff, who has been promoted to partner in the serious injury division.

Read more: Northumberland firm has designs on growth after expansion into new base

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Lucy Nicol, regional managing partner in Irwin Mitchell’s Newcastle office, said: “The North East continues to be one of our core areas of focus and our new, larger office space, coupled with the acquisition of Silk Family Law demonstrates this remains the case. This expansion gives us the tools to drive further growth and support our clients across the north of England with a broader range of services..

“We’re now well-placed to deliver on our wider strategy for growth and are looking forward to the next 20 years of working hand in hand with colleagues, clients and the communities across the North East over the long term.”

Meanwhile, North East independent chartered accountancy and advisory firm UNW has also significantly increased its office space in the neighbouring Citygate II building, to give the business more space to grow. The expansion sees the firm increase its office footprint at the site on St James’ Boulevard by over 35%, moving from its original 7,200sqft office space it has occupied since 2008 to take the entire 11,000sqft second floor, which will accommodate the 185-strong team.



Inside UNW's new office in Newcastle
Inside UNW’s new office in Newcastle

The move allows for the creation of more jobs at the firm, including a further 15 graduate and apprentice roles in September.

Chris Wilson, partner and head of corporate finance at UNW, said: “This substantial investment in our facilities not only reflects our dedication to meeting the needs of our growing team but also ensures that we can continue to build on our success in recent years.”

“We’re creating a great place to work here at UNW. From the supportive, transparent, and inclusive culture that exists, right through to the high-quality training and development opportunities we provide. We know that providing our people, and those we plan to hire, with a first-class office environment where they can really thrive, will enable us to continue to recruit and retain some of the brightest and best talent in the region.”