Simmons helps Qatar add to UK property holdings

Simmons & Simmons has advised sovereign wealth fund the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) as it expands its UK property portfolio further.

The QIA has acquired a 20 per cent stake in ­property investor Chelsfield – owner of ;London’s ;famous ­Camden Market as well as other assets.

Corporate partner Colin Leaver led the transaction with ;assistance ;from ­corporate associate Ania Rontaler. Through its new investment, the QIA gained two seats on the management board of Chelsfield.

The QIA already has a significant presence in ­trophy UK property assets, including Renzo Piano’s iconic Shard of Glass building, the Chelsea Barracks and Songbird Estates, which itself has major interests in Canary Wharf.

SJ Berwin advised Chelsfield on the transaction, which took place for an undisclosed sum. The firm’s team was led by corporate partner Peter Anderson, assisted by associates Debra Hoe and Samantha Khoo.