Lester Aldridge LLP is noted for its expertise in site acquisitions, franchise agreements, and residential development projects. Tom Alder heads the real estate development team in Southampton, while Mark Benham heads the Bournemouth practice. The ‘extremely professional and knowledgeable’ Suki Samra also co-leads the team, and is recommended for his vast knowledge of real estate finance issues. The team was bolstered by the addition of Sam Wylie, who joined from Moore Barlow in October 2023, contributing his experience in advising landlords on the management of their property portfolios.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team always make themselves available to discuss matters without lengthy notice.’
‘Lana Farrell is always cheerful and helpful. She listens to what her client is saying and tailors the advice to each situation.’
‘Lester Aldridge always goes above and beyond in my experience. They appreciate the pressures involved when trying to secure commercial assets and will always do their utmost to ensure they act diligently and quickly when negotiating legal documents.’
‘Mark Benham, Bethan Dodd, and Tom Alder are an absolute pleasure to deal with. Their advice is always clear and sensible. They always respond quickly to requests for assistance.’
'Suki Samra is extremely professional and knowledgeable.'
'Michelle Musker is always readily available to jump on a call and work through queries.'
'Jon Deadman has great knowledge.'
Key clients
- McCarthy Stone
- Big Yellow
- Yorkshire Building Society
- University of Southampton
- Care South
- Allica Bank
- Lloyds Bank plc
- Meyrick Estate
- Horizon Care & Education Group
- Breeze Motor Group
Work highlights
- Advised Big Yellow Group plc on the real estate aspects of its £300m refinance.
- Advised McCarthy Stone on its new land acquisition programme for older persons’ shared ownership affordable housing sites.
- Advised Yorkshire Building Society on the purchase of a large property portfolio.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Mark Benham, Suki Samra, Tom Alder