BCLP strengthens commercial construction team with new UK partner

International law firm BCLP today announced the lateral hire of Partner Edward McMullen to its commercial construction team. Edward will further strengthen BCLP’s Southampton, UK office. 

In 2006, Edward was an Associate at BLP and now returns to the firm after leading a Southampton transactional team at Blake Morgan. He specializes in construction and engineering projects, bringing expertise in commercial developments, funding agreements, building contracts, warranties, and other security instruments relevant to construction transactions.

Edward’s recent experience includes public sector leisure center procurement, such as advising Westminster City Council on the major refurbishment of the Grade II listed Seymour Leisure Centre in Marylebone. He has provided long-term counsel on the construction infrastructure aspects of an international supermarket’s growing network of distribution centers. He also played a key role in facilitating the fast-track expansion of Metro Bank’s branch network, aligning legal complexities on projects located across the south of England. Following the 2017 Grenfell disaster, Edward deployed his expertise in assembling a portfolio of cladding remediation projects, advising management companies, freeholders, and devolved Government. He has negotiated the funding, access, and works agreements with many so-called ‘Pledge developers’.

Previous to his role at Blake Morgan, Edward worked at the Australian firm Minter Ellison, qualifying as a local lawyer in its Hong Kong office. He advised on the $12 billion mega-development known as Macau’s Cotai Strip and resolved arbitration claims that arose following the 2008 financial crisis.

Edward McMullen, Partner for Commercial Construction, said, “I’ve witnessed BCLP’s growth over the years, and it’s a pleasure to return with wide experience and enthusiasm to help further enhance the commercial construction service offering and the broader firm overall.”

Gareth Stringer, Practice Group Leader for Commercial Construction, said, “Edward brings a wealth of commercial real estate knowledge and service delivery that will be an asset to BCLP. With his extensive experience advising clients in commercial development and project procurement across both private and the public sectors, Edward will enhance BCLP’s capabilities to exceed our clients’ expectations.”

Nazir Dewji, Global Department Leader for Real Estate, said, “Edward is exceptionally well-suited to advance our goals as an international firm while providing strategic support to our clients and local teams. It’s a pleasure to welcome him back to BCLP.”