The appointment sees the law firm extend its relationship with the UK housebuilder after securing a place on Avant’s England and Wales legal panel in 2021.

Avant’s Scottish panel covers a range of real estate matters, with Shoosmiths advising on all aspects of residential development including strategic land acquisition, affordable housing and plot sales. The client team is led by real estate partner Lauren Miller, along with Janette Speed, head of Shoosmiths Scotland, who will take up the role as client relationship partner for Scotland. Shoosmiths’ England and Wales panel team is led by Judy Fawcett.

Avant operates across the north east of England, Yorkshire, Midlands, and also Scotland where the housebuilder has 11 developments, with plans to further expand its operations.

Rachel Cowper, general counsel at Avant Homes, said: “We are pleased to be expanding our working partnership with Shoosmiths to include Scotland. The firm’s living sector team across the UK is ideally placed to provide legal expertise and support to Avant as it continues to deliver outstanding new homes and progresses its growth plans.”

Lauren Miller, real estate partner at Shoosmiths, said: “Avant is embarking on an exciting period of growth in Scotland. We’re looking forward to helping it navigate this journey and deliver its long-term strategy - advising on new land opportunities, while bringing quality developments and homes forward for its customers.”

Judy Fawcett, real estate partner and co-head of Shoosmiths’ living sector, added: “Shoosmiths’ living sector continues to go from strength to strength. After successfully advising Avant on its operations in England and Wales, this latest panel appointment is an opportunity to further build our relationship and assist its ongoing expansion in Scotland.

“Lauren is leading an expert team which, as part of our national living group, provides a full service approach, advising on matters from land and planning through to final plot sales.”