Watson Burton loses real estate head to client Bellway

Scougall joins the FTSE-listed homebuilder in the newly created role of group legal adviser.

The North East firm has worked with Belllway for more than 20 years - advising on construction, real estate and dispute resolution - and last year advised on a major property development near Stockton (6 September 2010).

Bellway chief executive John Watson said: “This move is testament to the relationship that we enjoy with one of our key external advisors.”

Waston Burton chief executive Patrick Harwood added: “We regard our relationships with clients as the foundation of our unique business model. Simon leaves behind an exceptional team that thrives on complex work and truly adds value to clients’ businesses.”

Watson Burton last year saw the departures of senior partner Robert Langley (24 May 2010), insolvency head Andrew Cawkwell and wealth management chief Keith Hately (7 June 2010).