Headed by George Bacon, the ‘highly skilled’ team at Walker Morris LLP manages commercial property matters across various sectors, including student accommodation, build-to-rent, public-private partnership developments, and work in the retail sector. Bacon acts for national retailers, developers, and property investors, while Will Cousins brings significant expertise in the student accommodation sector. Adam Reed is a name to note in relation to high value acquisitions and disposals, large portfolio deals, commercial lettings, and development. Jane Weaver, Joanne Hawkins, and Steve Nixon are also key members of the team; with Weaver and Hawkins focusing on landlord-tenant issues, and Nixon acting for house builders, landowners, and promoters on development sites across England and Wales.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Will Cousins is an excellent day-to-day contact. Always valued honesty, quick thinking, approachable, work well with my team.'
‘We have used the firm for probably 30 plus years. During that time, the word that describes the team is quality. Quality advice, quality people. The team are practical and commercial and think outside the box to find the best solutions.'
‘We use Will Cousins frequently. He knows our business, understands our aims and goals and helps us achieve those goals. A great thinker and problem solver and very good at working with "the other side" for best outcomes. He truly leads a transaction.’
‘I have worked with Jane Weaver for 28 years on tens of transactions every year. She is a standout operator in her field.'
‘I have worked with the WM team for many years. Their industry knowledge is excellent but more importantly, they understand our business; how we work, how best to deal with very different personalities. They are always available and keen to assist, often at the drop of a hat.’
‘George Bacon and Joanne Hawkins are my go-to lawyers. They have worked together for many years and constantly deliver no nonsense, sensible, commercial advice that gets the deal done without any show boating. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending them.'
Key clients
- GIC
- Unite Students
- Moda Living
- Advent International
- McLaren Property
- Starbucks
Work highlights
Advised on the acquisition of two high value and complex development sites in central London.
Advised on the purchase, lease regear and subsequent sub-sale of a grade A office building in central Manchester, which required complex tax analysis to ensure the best structuring to achieve Kier Property's required outcome.
Advised Welltower on the acquisition and restructuring of the portfolio, which comprises more than 150 care homes in England and Wales.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
George Bacon
Other key lawyers
Will Cousins; Adam Reed; Jane Weaver; Joanne Hawkins; Steve Nixon