A SOUTH coast property consultancy group has bought Southampton based commercial property agents Palmer Fry for an undisclosed amount, the Daily Echo can reveal.

The strategic expansion of Goadsby & Harding's commercial property arm was funded by both cash and shares.

Group chief executive and finance director David Errington said: "This business acquisition is the latest step forward in our drive to be the south's foremost property consultancy."

Goadsby & Harding Commercial will focus increasingly on the central south coast region from its new footholds in Southampton and Winchester, as well as Bournemouth.

The tie-up - the talk of the region's highly competitive commercial property market - involves a combined staff of 55, including 38 fee-earners.

Goadsby & Harding Commercial managing director Chris Heighway said: "This is a fantastic step."

Five Palmer Fry directors now join the Goadsby & Harding commercial board.

Palmer Fry spokesmam Richard Pullen said: "Together we provide a unique combination of market knowledge and strong local performance over a significant central southern region."