Engineer John Watt sues St James Quarter’s managers, Savills, alleging unfair dismissal and safety issues after raising concerns.
Watt said concerns led to his firing quickly. He raised issues in late January 2024. Savills then claimed he performed poorly. The company stated he failed probation. He said he questioned a “fraudulent” request and received a £5,000 bonus before his concerns.
Watt said he had good performance reviews earlier. Watt stated his mental health suffered greatly and he got an ADHD diagnosis in July 2024. He said this affected his reaction to being fired.
Savills lawyer Erin Moncur presented witness Louise Mair. Mair worked in HR at Savills and attended meetings about Watt’s dismissal.
Mair testified his termination was February 6th. Watt said the date had to be written and he received written confirmation on February 12th. Mair said Watt failed his probation period. The hearing focused on his termination date, as this date matters for filing deadlines.
Claims to tribunals have strict deadlines. Acas’ site says claims have a three-month limit. Unfair dismissal deadlines start from the official end date.
Watt and Moncur submit final information by February 20, 2025. Judge Sangster will decide the termination date and if the case continues soon after.
Watt confirmed he started legal action against Savills. He cannot comment more during the ongoing case but wants fairness to be the result.
Savills stated they don’t comment on legal matters. This is their company policy in such situations.