The move comes after the law firm’s first foray south of the border, announced earlier this month, with the takeover of Lincoln-based Home Property Lawyers (HPL) Ltd.

The new 4,500 sq ft premises, secured on a long-term lease, are situated in Aberdeen’s west end, at Blenheim Gate. They will provide a base for the firm’s lawyers – all with strong local knowledge - to work more closely with clients across the city and shire.

Glen Gilson, group chairman and managing partner of Gilson Gray, said: “The legal marketplace is ripe for consolidation at the moment, and we are keen to offer stability and support for any firm, anywhere in Britain, which might benefit from joining the expanding Gilson Gray group.

“The north east of Scotland is a dynamic region with tremendous economic opportunities. Our decision to open an office reinforces our commitment to the area and to our clients.

“We now have offices stretching along the east coast of Scotland from Aberdeen to Dundee to East Lothian – as well as Edinburgh and Glasgow.”

Two partners will head up the new office, both natives of Aberdeen. Calum Crighton, who currently leads Gilson Gray’s oil, gas and energy team, will work alongside Richard Shepherd, who joined the firm in Januaryand is now a senior figure in the firm’s real estate services.

Mr Crighton said: “We are committed to offering full services from Aberdeen and have already embarked on a recruitment drive to meet demand, focusing on hiring local people.”

Mr Shepherd added: “Calum and I know the market well, backed up by gold standard local knowledge, which we believe gives us an edge.”

Gilson Gray has seen strong growth in recent years, driven by organic client wins and a number of acquisitions, Its Gilson Gray Financial Management arm has been particularly active, taking over 13 financial services firms across Scotland, and with more in the pipeline.