The firm has made a total of 10 new appointments in Belfast since last year’s tie-up between Northern Ireland firm McKees and UK law firm Foot Antsey.

Mr Milligan, a specialist in energy and infrastructure projects, joins following five years with Tughans.

Having delivered some of the highest-value transactions and pathfinder projects in Northern Ireland over the past decade, he brings expertise from major energy and infrastructure projects and real estate transactions across asset classes.

Mr Kelly joins from Shoosmiths’ banking and finance team, where he gained recognition for work undertaken across real estate, energy finance, and interest rate hedging.

He has completed some of the largest real estate finance deals in Northern Ireland, specialising in retail, living and leisure projects, and is also experienced in energy finance matters.

Martin Hirst, managing partner of the Foot Anstey Group, said: “It is a pleasure to welcome two new partners, Chris and Michael, to Foot Anstey McKees.

“As we build real momentum in the market, their wealth of experience and deep connections in the real estate, finance, and energy and infrastructure sectors will not only strengthen our position in Northern Ireland but also prove critical to the overall evolution of the firm.”

Chris Ross, partner and head of Belfast office, added: “Welcoming two new partners to our Belfast office is a clear reflection of the firm’s continued momentum and our long-term commitment to investing in our people and our presence locally.

“Their experience strengthens our offering and supports our ambition to grow in a way that is both sustainable and rooted in the communities we serve.”