Winkworth’s High Court battle with its non-executive chair Simon Agace has been paused for a month while the two sides hold talks aimed at reaching a settlement.
The listed estate agency franchisor confirmed that it and Agace have agreed a consent order, which the High Court has sealed.
The development follows Winkworth’s decision to launch proceedings against Agace over alleged breaches of confidentiality and other duties.
Those allegations have not been determined by the court.
Settlement discussions under way
Winkworth said undertakings previously given by Agace in connection with an earlier consent order, dated 12 August 2026, will remain in force.
They will continue until the dispute reaches a resolution, the court orders otherwise or the proceedings conclude.
The two sides are now in discussions “with a view to reaching a settlement”.
Meanwhile, the court has stayed all further proceedings for one month.
A hearing scheduled for 5 October has also been adjourned. The parties can restore it after the stay expires, subject to at least seven days’ notice, or following a further court order.
Confidentiality allegations
Winkworth originally launched proceedings following independent legal advice.
The case concerns alleged breaches of confidentiality, provisions of a relationship agreement between Winkworth and Agace dating from November 2009, and associated director duties under the Companies Act 2006.
Winkworth also sought interim injunctive relief concerning proposed changes to the composition of its board and the use and disclosure of confidential company information.
In addition, the company sought information relating to the alleged disclosure of confidential information to third parties.
At the time, Winkworth stressed that the court had not determined the allegations.
Independent review of Winkworth board
Alongside the latest legal development, Winkworth has revealed that an external advisory firm is carrying out an independent review of its board.
The company expects the full findings within the coming weeks.
However, Winkworth has already received initial recommendations covering board composition and corporate governance arrangements.
The board is considering its overall make-up as part of its succession planning, including the appropriate balance of independence across the non-executive chair and non-executive director roles.
The review adds another dimension to the dispute given Agace’s position as non-executive chair and the original proceedings concerning proposed changes to the board.
Agace previously served as Winkworth chief executive before stepping down in 2004. His son, Dominic Agace, became chief executive in 2006 and continues to lead the business.
Winkworth said it will provide further updates as appropriate.
