Facilities at the Law Society’s main building at 113 Chancery Lane have reopened to visitors from today, the Society announced. The building had been closed by a major fire in office premises over the weekend. 

An announcement this morning stated: '113 is open for our members to use from today, Wednesday 5 February. We will update the website and put the message out over social media. Members will be able to access the Reading Room, Library and 113 Restaurant.'

The fire, which broke out in 114 Chancery Lane on Saturday night, was contained without injury by the efforts of 150 firefighters. Attendees at a Junior Lawyers Division event were safely evacuated by staff. 

Paul Tennant, chief executive, hailed the efforts of fire fighters who helped preserve the organisation’s Grade 2 listed building.

'While the fire caused extensive damage to the roof and upper floors of 114 we are delighted that 113 -  housing the library, Reading Room and other key areas most familiar to our members and visitors - was preserved. We are indebted to the remarkable work of the fire service.

'Today, just three days after the fire, our teams are back in 113, our doors are open and planned events and meetings are going ahead which is a testament to our staff and everyone who works with the Society.

'I would like to thank the many people who sent good wishes and messages of support and offers of help – all of these were greatly appreciated at this challenging time. We have begun the process of assessing the damage and managing the next stage of our recovery.'