CMS strengthens Real Estate Disputes team with the appointment of two market-leading lawyers in Manchester
CMS is delighted to announce the arrival of two highly respected lawyers to its Real Estate Disputes practice. Wayne Nash joins as a Partner, while Ben Kelly joins as of Counsel. Both are renowned figures across the North-West legal and real estate markets, bringing exceptional expertise and a proven track record in advising clients on complex, high profile disputes and development risk.
Wayne is recognised as one of the UK’s leading development constraints lawyers, with a particular focus on rights of light. Over his career, Wayne has played a pivotal role in the successful delivery of more than £20bn of new developments, specialising in high-rise buildings within the PRS and PBSA sectors. He also brings significant expertise in resolving joint venture disputes across public/private partnerships, with a particular emphasis on large-scale regeneration schemes. He is ranked as a leading lawyer by legal directories Chambers & Partners and The Legal 500.
Ben is equally well regarded, with a reputation for delivering sharp, commercial advice on contentious real estate issues. Known also for his expertise in rights of light, he adds further strength and depth to CMS’ market-leading offering.
Tanya Holt, CMS Partner and Managing Director at CMS One North, says: “The appointment of Wayne and Ben is an important part of CMS’ continued growth trajectory in Manchester and across the North of England. They add a strong disputes offering to our top tier real estate practice in the North West. CMS has grown rapidly in the North of England in the last five years, more than doubling revenues during that time. This appointment will help fuel even faster growth over the next five years, and we are delighted that they have joined us.”
Emma Pinkerton, CMS Partner and Co-Head of the Real Estate Disputes team at CMS UK, comments: “Wayne is a highly respected real estate disputes specialist, well-known both locally and nationally. His appointment cements our position as the UK’s number one development and rights of light practice. With 13 real estate disputes partners across the country, including Bristol, Manchester, Sheffield and London, we offer unrivalled national coverage and expertise. Expanding our Manchester team also fits perfectly with our strategy to attract top talent in the regions, encourage cross-office collaboration and deliver a seamless service to clients nationwide.”
Wayne adds: “We’re thrilled to join CMS and to be part of such a dynamic and market-leading team. With over 20 years of experience practising in the North West, I look forward to leveraging my local knowledge and expertise, while also making the most of CMS’ national and global footprint. The firepower that CMS brings is truly unrivalled across the real estate spectrum and creates a compelling proposition for clients.”
CMS boasts one of the largest specialist Real Estate Disputes teams in the UK, focusing exclusively on real estate issues. These recent appointments further reinforce the firm’s market-leading offering.
