Bond Pearce has continued its recruitment drive ahead of its merger with Dickinson Dees, taking on planning partner Kevin Gibbs and insurance partner Jane Williams from DAC Beachcroft and Kennedys respectively.

Gibbs, who is top ranked by Chambers and Partners for planning work, recently advised the Co-operative Group on planning aspects of an £800m regeneration scheme in Manchester. He is leaving DAC Beachcroft after less than two years at the firm following his arrival from Osborne Clarke in May 2011.