A LAW firm is set to make a move to Glasgow Prestwick Airport to expand its reach in Ayrshire.

Holmes Mackillop has announced it is moving to a new office in Westburn Business Centre in Prestwick.

The opening of an office at Glasgow Prestwick Airport by Holmes Mackillop was fuelled by the decision to create Prestwick Spaceport. 

Around 18 months after establishing a base in the town, the new location will position the company to better serve existing and potential clients.

A joint venture between the airport and South Ayrshire Council, the Spaceport aims to become one of Europe’s leading space and aerospace centres and the premier place for launching small satellites into orbit via aircraft.

Holmes Mackillop has undergone wide-ranging changes since it was first established 200 years ago, one of those being the formation and growth of specialist legal teams within the company.

Corporate director Ralph Riddiough, who lives in Ayr, heads up the Aerospace and Space Law team which advises companies on regulatory and contractual issues arising in the sector.

Prior to joining Holmes Mackillop, Ralph worked for South Ayrshire Council and was involved in the governance of the successful Regional Growth Deal that will support the delivery of Prestwick Spaceport with £80m of funding.

Mr Riddiough said: “Prestwick Spaceport, and the surrounding world-leading aerospace companies, present local and Scottish businesses with a wealth of opportunities.

“At Holmes Mackillop, we are always keen to help clients deal with the challenges posed by emerging technologies.

“Space is an exciting area that throws up complex questions but not the only area requiring legal expertise; given that I lead the corporate law team I can help with a whole range of queries.

"Furthermore, our lawyers working in other sectors are always happy to travel from our headquarters in Glasgow to Prestwick if the client finds it more convenient.

"We’re always delighted to talk to anyone who feels they could benefit from our services.”