A PROPERTY consultancy firm says more commercial offices need to be built in Southampton while the economy is bouncing back.

Andrew Hodgkinson, associate director Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH), was able to secure the sale of a prominent city centre office block in Castle Way.

Now Mr Hodgkinson said he would like to see more done to feed demand for office space.

He said: “We are seeing a definite rise in the number of enquiries about freehold commercial properties now, which is a clear indicator that the market is gaining confidence once more,” said Andrew.

“However, there is a limited supply in Southampton which is driving up property prices. We’d like to see more good quality office space available to accommodate companies that either want to relocate here or who want to expand because they are experiencing an improving market.

“We are also seeing more queries about rental premises, which is potentially great news for the city.”

Working in LSH’s south coast office, Mr Hodgkinson acted on behalf of James Hay Pension Trustees to sell 41 Castle Way for £370,000 to an undisclosed buyer.