Chris Richardson – a commercial property practitioner with almost 20 years’ experience – has left Anderson Strathern to join Aberdein Considine as head of commercial real estate for England and Wales.

Mr Richardson, who will be based in Edinburgh, was with Anderson Strathern for 15 years – where he specialised in a range of commercial property matters including urban regeneration, mixed use development and letting property to commercial operators.

In his previous role he led the retail team on all retail letting and development work in England and Wales, was the principal property lawyer for a joint venture company on a £700 million town centre redevelopment project, advised on shopping centre, industrial parks and logistics businesses acquisitions, sales and lettings as well as supporting clients on a healthcare property portfolio in the UK.

Head of commercial real estate for Aberdein Considine, Paul Jennings, said Mr Richardson’s appointment was a significant milestone for the firm’s growing commercial property practice in England and Wales.

He said: “Over the last few years we’ve seen our commercial real estate business grow considerably in Scotland but also across the rest of the UK.

“Whilst our primary focus in recent times has been Scotland, Chris’s appointment will be crucial as we look to assist the increasing number of clients who are looking for support in England and Wales.

“I’ve known Chris for many years and his commercial expertise and knowledge of the market will be an important asset for our clients.”Chris is one of the most respected and effective lawyers in his field and we’re delighted he has agreed to lead our England and Wales operation.”

Mr Richardson added: “Aberdein Considine has punched well above its weight for years in commercial property and the chance to lead the practice south of the border was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”