Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has advised Hermes GPE LLP (Hermes) in connection with the acquisition of a 17.1% ownership stake in Southern Water by its clients.

The deal will see Hermes’ overall management ownership interest in Southern Water rise to 21%.

Southern Water is responsible for a region encompassing Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Kent and East and West Sussex, supplying water to over 2.4 million people and wastewater services to 4.6 million people. The company operates across the entire water and sewerage spectrum and is the seventh largest supply and sewerage company in England by regulated capital value.

The Norton Rose Fulbright team advising on the transaction was led by corporate partner Stephen Rigby assisted by senior associate Keith Law, associate Alex Wills, associate Joshua Temkin, and senior knowledge lawyer Fay Stavrou. Joosje Hamilton advised on regulatory aspects. Partner Matt Hodkin and senior associate Andrew Roycroft provided tax law advice.

Norton Rose Fulbright has previously advised Hermes in connection with a number of infrastructure acquisitions, including in the energy, transport and utilities sectors.