National law firm Shoosmiths has advised Bellway PLC on three new housing developments in Edinburgh and West Lothian as the housebuilder continues its investment north of the border.

The Imperial Heights development at Abbeylane, Edinburgh city centre, will provide 139 contemporary one, two or three bed apartments. Construction will start early next year on the development that will provide a unique opportunity for buyers to own a home with access to great transport links and within close proximity to the amenities of the city centre.

Shoosmiths also advised Bellway on two new developments in West Lothian. At Heartlands, the group is planning the construction of a further 137 homes on an 11-acre site following the success of the initial phase of 88 homes. The second West Lothian development will be located on the former Hall's factory site in Broxburn. Chandler's Way will provide 176 homes with the first homes expected to be ready for occupation in April next year.

Shoosmiths' real estate partner and head of residential development in Edinburgh, Janette Speed led the team that advised Bellway on these developments alongside senior associate Laura Bloxham and associate Shona White. The team advised on all legal aspects relating to the transactions including acquisition contracts and conveyancing, planning agreements and construction issues as well as complex on-site issues and deeds of conditions. Their dedicated specialist plot sales team will now assist Bellway in delivering the onward house sales on these sites.

Willie McDermott, land director at Bellway, commented: 'We are very happy with the work that Shoosmiths has carried out for us, both on these projects in Scotland as well as others across the UK. They combine expert legal advice and strong market knowledge to deliver excellent results and client service.'

Janette Speed added: 'We are extremely pleased to be assisting Bellway on its continued investment in delivering much needed homes across the UK. These developments in Scotland point to Bellway's strong performance in the house building sector and will bring a wealth of benefits to the local communities. We are already involved in advising on further site acquisitions for this important client and we look forward to working on many more with Bellway in future.'

Shoosmiths' national real estate team services a wide variety of clients across the UK on real estate, construction, planning, property litigation and environmental issues. Clients range from commercial and residential developers to investors, retail and leisure operators and public sector bodies including Bellway, St Modwen Properties PLC, Allied London, Marstons, Northwood and Galliford Try.