Planning and Environment

The services we provide

We advise on a complete range of contentious and non-contentious planning, environmental, highways administrative law and local government matters. We provide strategic advice to listed and private developers, investors, local authorities, NHS Trusts and individuals.

We have a particular expertise in major residential, commercial and retail-led mixed use development. We also have considerable experience in advising on infrastructure projects and the use of compulsory purchase powers.

What we are known for

We have a leading residential development practice and advise on the strategic assessment of potential sites and their promotion through the development plan process, the preparation and submission of planning applications to their determination, as well as appeals.

We have particular expertise in the drafting and negotiation of complex Section 106 Agreements for residential and mixed use developments, viability appraisals and the provision of affordable housing. We also regularly advise on related areas of planning law such as enforcement, use classes, permitted development rights, heritage assets and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).

We act for a wide range of clients on statutory challenges and judicial review proceedings up to the Supreme Court, advising on areas that include: Environmental Impact Assessments, Strategic Environmental Assessment, the Habitats Directive and Aarhus Convention.

We frequently advise on the use of compulsory purchase powers, compensation claims including in the Lands Chamber. We also have extensive experience of the use of Parliamentary process to secure powers for infrastructure projects such as HS2 and Crossrail 1/Crossrail 2 (including Safeguarding Directions) as well as National Policy Statements, Development Consent Orders and Transport and Works Act Orders.

Our Environmental law activity includes matters such as permitting and consenting as well as advising insurance companies on risk and claims involving chemical spills, pollution, contaminated land and asbestos.