The controversial former boss of Persimmon is to take charge of northern housebuilder Avant Homes after spearheading an audacious takeover of the £450m turnover firm by Yorkshire-based minnow Berkeley DeVeer.

The deal, backed by fund manager Elliott Investment Management, will see £28m turnover Berkeley DeVeer buy out Avant Homes – formerly Gladedale – and install Jeff Fairburn as chair of the combined business.

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