CMS Cameron McKenna's real estate head Edward Benzecry is set to relocate to Bristol as he steps down from leading the practice group.

Benzecry (pictured), who was not eligible to stand for a third four-year term leading the real estate practice, is due to relocate on 1 May.

Camerons has nominated City real estate partner and UK sector group head for real estate and construction Mark Heighton as his replacement, subject to approval from the firm's partnership.

Camerons opened in Bristol around 20 years ago after following major banking client Lloyds to the city.

The firm now has five partners and some 52 associates in the office, the bulk of whom cover insurance, reinsurance and banking. The real estate practice in Bristol has two partners and 10 associates.

The top 20 UK law firm said that Benzecry's relocation has come as part of its efforts to step up cost-cutting and compete against national firms with lower cost bases. The firm is also hoping the move will help attract additional lawyers to the Bristol office rather than London.

Commenting on his relocation, Benzecry said: "London is the most expensive city in the UK, so providing any services outside London means that we can compete not only with London firms but with national firms that have a much lower cost base.

"It is not that we are in Bristol competing in the Bristol market – it is a resource as part of our full UK offering. The aim has always been to provide the same level of high-quality service to clients, while keeping our cost base competitive."

Benzecry will also resign from the firm's board when he steps down from the practice group manager role.

Since Heighton has already been a board member for four years, a separate vote will decide on a replacement for the vacant seat on the board.