DWF names new construction partner

LAW firm DWF has appointed Steven Bate as a partner in its construction team in Leeds.

Mr Bate, who is the fifth partner to join DWF from Hammonds, specialises in resolving construction and engineering disputes at all levels and in advising construction companies on risk avoidance.

He spent nine years with Walker Morris in Leeds before moving to Hammonds in 2006, becoming a partner a year later.

During his career he has advised on a wide range of cases, included acting for Cleveland Bridge and a scaffolding contractor in separate disputes arising from the Wembley National Stadium project, advising on key construction projects for the Olympic Games in 2012 and acting in the landmark case of Reinwood versus L Brown & Sons, which involved notification, payment and extension of time issues.

Mr Bate’s non-contentious work has included working with public and private developers and providing risk avoidance advice to Yorkshire Forward and English Partnerships.

He has also contributed to a number of legal reference books and is a guest lecturer on Leeds Metropolitan University’s Construction Law and Arbitration MSc course.

Mr Bate said of his appointment: “This is an exciting opportunity to develop and grow the construction team in Leeds. DWF is very much on a growth curve and there is a wealth of interesting opportunities for us to explore.”

Andrew Leaitherland, DWF’s managing partner added: “Despite the challenging climate DWF is continuing to recruit people at senior levels in line with our strategy of building expertise in key areas.

“Steven is highly respected within his field and brings added strength and depth to our construction team in Leeds.”