Law firm Blake Morgan has appointed construction specialist James Bessey as a partner.

The move comes as the firm looks to expand its construction team.

The division has grown due to a merger between Blake Lapthorn and Morgan Cole in 2014, with an additional subsequent merger with London-based Piper Smith Watton earlier this year.

As former head of construction and infrastructure at DWF in Birmingham, Mr Bessey has experience in dispute resolution and non-contentious work for clients in both retail and leisure, social housing, the public sector and mechanical/electrical industries.

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He has previously worked on national and international projects, including the National Space Centre and the Channel Tunnel Rail Link.

Speaking on his appointment, Mr Bessey said: "Blake Morgan has a national reputation in construction law and clearly plans to build on that position by pushing forward into new areas and expanding its footprint in specialisms such as retail and leisure and public sector infrastructure projects.

"I am excited to be part of an ambitious, forward-looking team as it moves into the next phase of strengthening and expanding its offering to clients."

Richard Wade, who heads Blake Morgan's Construction team, added: "James is a highly-respected specialist in large-scale construction project work and brings with him a reputation for straightforward advice, a deep understanding of the sector and a huge amount of experience and expertise.

"His profile, commercial acumen, ambition and insight make him an excellent fit for Blake Morgan and his appointment demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing first rate client service in this important practice area."

(LM/CD)