Birmingham is in line for a massive jobs boost after the Solicitors Regulation Authority announced it will be moving to the city.
More than 600 staff will be employed at an as yet undisclosed location, though most will be relocating from the SRA’s offices in Redditch and Leamington, which are set to close.
The move represents a boost for the commercial property sector too.
The SRA, which regulates solicitors across England and Wales, has been looking at a number of city centre premises, including 2 Colmore Square and The Cube, as well as an out of town location.
The SRA move builds on Birmingham’s reputation as a major legal centre, following the move of the Legal Ombudsman’s office to Baskerville House.
The city has an estimated 7,000 lawyers and Birmingham Law Society is the biggest law society outside London.
Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council, welcomed the news, adding: “Birmingham’s legal and professional services sectors are strong drivers of growth in the city and their development is a key part of our strategy to attract investment.
“The decision to relocate 600 staff to Birmingham city centre, despite some stiff competition, reflects the strength of our offer.
“Our talent pool and skills, location and continuing investment in infrastructure and transport were all deciding factors that have helped to bring these jobs to Birmingham.
“This move, when considered alongside other major regulatory bodies in the city such as the Legal Ombudsman, the Office of the Public Guardian and Gambling Commission further confirms the talent, specialist knowledge and expertise of Birmingham’s legal and professional community.
“We will be building on this strong foundation to attract further investment and build Birmingham’s reputation as a natural location for the sector.”
Business Birmingham, the city’s inward investment programme, has been working with the SRA and will continue to support it as it develops its presence in the city.
