Walton & Co, the Leeds-based planning law specialists, has cemented its growth with a move to a new city centre office at 4 York Place. The relocation from its previous 17-year home marks a significant investment, providing a modern, collaborative space for its expanded team. The firm has grown its headcount from seven to nine over the past year, reflecting sustained demand for its niche expertise. Team growth includes the appointment of Rukayya Kara as a legal apprentice. Ms Kara, from Dewsbury, will combine practical experience with study at BPP University Law School, forming part of the firm's strategy to "grow its own" talent. Director James Cook noted the investment is a "testament to our commitment to Leeds City Centre" and will facilitate collaboration as the firm continues to progress.



Chartered accountancy and business advisory firm Saffery has significantly boosted its Leeds office with the appointment of 11 trainees. This investment reflects the firm's commitment to developing young talent amidst increasing demand for high-quality advisory services in the city. The new cohort is split across core functions: five join the tax team, five enter audit, and one joins accounts. The new trainees are Adam Tilling, Bronte Crowley, Christopher Oates, Jack Clough, Joshua Martin, Kai Wyld, Megan Lightbrown, Owen Warburton, Peter Tupling, Samuel Rust, and Jake Pullan. Each trainee will follow a structured qualification pathway supported by dedicated mentorship.



Johan Sadler, a 48-year-old construction professional, has been appointed to a site supervisor training track at True North Construction in Newcastle, marking the successful transition of his career to the UK. Originally from South Africa, where he was a site manager, Mr Sadler relocated to the North East in late 2023. He joined True North Construction in May 2024 as a labourer, needing to obtain UK-specific certifications like the CSCS card and a dumper truck licence. Since then, he has completed a Level 2 NVQ in Construction Operations. True North Construction, which specialises in bespoke residential builds and certified Passivhaus homes, is now supporting Mr Sadler through Level 3 training to qualify him for a supervisory role, recognising his extensive international experience.



Law firm Weightmans has announced the appointment of two new partners to its Insurance law practice in Manchester, reinforcing its capacity for handling complex claims. Emma Eccles joins the national Large Loss team, bringing extensive experience in complex and high-value injury claims, having previously been a partner at Clyde & Co. Her background includes advising insurers and public sector bodies across serious injury litigation. Mark Woodall arrives as a partner in the Cross Border team, where he will focus on complex transportation and international claims. Mr Woodall is noted for his deep knowledge of the bus and coach sector and will work with colleagues in both Manchester and London. The arrival of Emma and Mark follows the recent appointments of Lee Cook, Luisa Lamb, and Elizabeth Wallace to the Large Loss team and a period of significant growth for the firm's insurance services.



Azets, the UK accountancy and advisory group, has appointed Joe Stroud as a Corporate Finance Partner, focusing on growing the firm's North West capabilities. Mr Stroud brings nearly 20 years of experience in the investment banking and private equity industry, giving him a dual perspective as both an adviser and an investor on transactions. His expertise includes advising entrepreneurs on succession planning and exit strategies, facilitating private equity deals, and supporting businesses with growth through acquisitions. His appointment is key to Azets' strategy for expanding its corporate finance team in the North West. Azets has regional offices across the area, including Manchester, Preston, and Burnley.