Hall Of Fame

Firms To Watch: Environment and planning

Wyke de Vos, who heads up Sight Advocaten‘s practice, was joined in September 2022 by new fellow co-leads Anneke Franken van Bloemendaal and Hans Koolen; both were formerly at Hemwood and harness over ten years’ experience working in environment and planning law.
The Utrecht-based environmental and planning law practice at Wijn & Stael Advocaten N.V., established by Shanna Derksen, is well equipped to advise on environmental aspects of permits, planning and zoning matters.

Environment and planning in Netherlands

AKD

AKD's environment and planning team, which is formed of ‘highly qualified lawyers’, is well-equipped to advise on the gamut of complex matters ranging from high-value major developments and zoning plans to contentious and non-contentious environmental issues regarding such aspects as the shipment of waste. Its client list features names including the Minister of Infrastructure and Environment in the Netherlands. Breda-based Jos Van Der Velden oversees the team, alongside Hugo Doornhof, who works from the Amsterdam office, and Rotterdam-based Gerrit van der Veen, who is described as being ‘straight to the pointreliable and very competent’. The ‘unique and down-to-earth’ Thomas Sanders is also a name to note, as is Eveline Sillevis Smitt, who is particularly focused on major development and enforcement matters. Henk Breeman retired from the team in December 2022. 

Practice head(s):

Jos van der Velden; Gerrit van der Veen; Hugo Doornhof


Other key lawyers:

Erik Dans; Thomas Sanders; Eveline Sillevis Smitt


Testimonials

‘A very customer-focused practice; individuals are extremely reliable in urgent situations.’

‘The individuals at AKD are very knowledgeable and have good access to a very broad and general network, including partners and government authorities. AKD manages to swiftly get to the bottom of things and finds a pragmatic approach in many situations.’

‘AKD offers a wide-range of legal services, covering both private and public affairs.’

‘Team members are each specialists in their field, and by proactively participating in the assignment they optimally serve the client.’

‘In my experience the team has an excellent knowledge of the subjects and works accurately.’

‘Gerrit van der Veen and Erik Dans are straight to the point, reliable and very competent.’

‘AKD is formed of highly qualified lawyers. They share their knowledge in a accessible way.’

‘Thomas Sanders is unique, one of a kind and more knowledgeable than any other lawyer I’ve met – he is also down to earth and shares complex information in a comprehensible way.’

Key clients

ProRail


Various provinces


Various municipalities


Waterboards


Uniper Benelux N.V.


Heros Sluiskil


Urenco Netherlands B.V.


Aldi Supermarkets


Havenbedrijf Rotterdam


AMVEST


Blauwhoed


Verbrugge Terminals, ZHD Stevedores


KFC


Wacker Chemie AG


WDP – Warehouses De Pauw


Hunter Douglas Europe


Dutch Parliament


Access World


Dutch State (Ministry of the Interior)


Sif Netherlands B.V.


Work highlights


  • Assisting Raiffeisen Immobilien Kapitalanlage GmbH in zoning proceedings in the city centre of Rotterdam, where housing for 240 students near the hospitality industry has been a challenge for years, and needs to be regulated in a definitive way.
  • Advised the Minister of Infrastructure and Environment in proceedings at the Council of State for the implementation modification of a crucial railway line in a densely populated area.
  • Advising the Municipality of Tilburg at the Council of State successfully in a landmark enforcement case about whether the use of rubber-infill for thousands of artificial turf fields in the Netherlands (mainly football pitches) is legal.

Houthoff

The environment and planning cohort at Houthoff has a strong reputation for its capabilities handling a broad scope of high-end advisory and litigious work. The team’s client portfolio spans industries ranging from the chemical, waste processing and energy, including renewables, sector to real estate. Examples of its high-value, and often cross-jurisdictional work includes advice on large-scale redevelopment projects and zoning matters on the planning side, and on climate action plans on the environmental side. Co-lead of the public law team Marry de Gaay Fortman supports team head Marloes Brans, whose broad expertise includes particularly issues surrounding climate risk and sustainability. Brans took over from former team lead Jan Frans de Groot, who departed in January 2023 to a position in The Dutch Council of State. Zoning and spatial planning specialist counsel and former practice head at CMSLuurt Wildeboer bolstered the team in September 2022.

Practice head(s):

Marloes Brans


Other key lawyers:

Marry de Gaay Fortman; Freeke Heijne; Monica Sonderegge; Luurt Wildeboer


Testimonials

‘Houthoff’s teams go to great lengths to understand the case and develop a completely conclusive legal line of reasoning.’

‘Every step in the line of reasoning has been thought through, all possible side-tracks have been finished and understood. A lot of time and work is put into it, and it shows.’

‘There are many different areas of expertise that can all be used in cases by the team members.’

‘Houthoff lawyers have strong personal skills and are able not only to assist and handle complex matters efficiently, but they also show that they have a good understanding of the business and the client needs.’

‘We worked with Marloes Brans and were always satisfied with the service provided, including his quality of advice, responsiveness, analytical skills, knowledge of the local market and business considerations.’

Key clients

Royal VolkerWessels


PPG


Huntsman


Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield


Tata Steel


Arup


Brancheorganisatie Kinderopvang


Milence


Municipality of Amersfoort


Municipality of Utrecht


Municipality of Hilversum


Nationale Politie


Makelaarsland


Royal Dutch Schiphol


G&S


Dutch National Opera & Ballet


VDL Nedcar


Nederlandse Spoorwegen N.V.


CBRE


Attero


Work highlights


  • Advising and litigating for a range of corporates with heavy industrial activities in the Netherlands, regarding complex permitting, regulatory, supervision and enforcements matters, including for Huntsman, Attero and Givaudan, both at executive and administrative level.
  • Working extensively with a range of governmental bodies at all levels, as well as many municipalities, such as Hilversum, on contracting and zoning law matters in relation to the redevelopment of Arenapark, the city’s main sport and business district.
  • Advising and representing various companies with advice and litigation representation in zoning matters, and with transactional work.

Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV

The Hague-based ‘best in class’ planning and environment practice at Pels Rijcken & Droogleever Fortuijn NV is headed up by ‘very sharp, responsive and realistic lawyer’ Daniëlle Roelands-Fransen. The team’s longstanding client list is formed in significant part of public authorities. Examples of its work for its public-sector clients includes large-scale development projects, involving hundreds of new-build homes; representing the state on aircraft movements; and advising on zoning planning in Rotterdam city centre. Jelmer Procee is a key member of the team with particular expertise in cases involving compensation for loss, land development and expropriation. Infrastructure, area development and environmental conservation specialist Roelof Reinders is also a noteworthy practitioner. Liesbeth Schippers retired from the practice in November 2023.

Practice head(s):

Daniëlle Roelands-Fransen


Other key lawyers:

Jelmer Procee; Roelof Reinders; Edward Brans


Testimonials

‘The team is best in class for supporting local and central governments. It has a great sense of political sensitivities and how to deal with those in complex legal situations.’

‘Daniëlle Roelands-Fransen is a very sharp, responsive and realistic lawyer. Her hands-on and practical approach, combined with her ability to consider the interests of the many stakeholders involved in public-decision-making, make her highly recommended for any government work.’

‘The lawyers of Pels Rijcken are always very professional and up-to-date in their knowledge.’

‘The lawyers of Pels Rijcken have excellent knowledge and skills and understand the specific role they have as state advocate. Daniëlle Roelands-Fransen is an excellent lawyer with great knowledge and a practical approach.’

‘Pels Rijcken is the dedicated law firm for legal advice and procedures for the Dutch Government. They are a full-service law firm and they are competent over the full legal spectrum.’

‘Jelmer Procee and his team are always available and able to provide us with good legal advice.’

‘They are very knowledgeable and very well-informed about all relevant developments within the field and current affairs.’

‘Because they work a lot for governments, they are very well-informed re how things work within the municipality. This helps enormously in providing advice and preparing procedures.’

Key clients

Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management


Dutch Ministry of Defence


Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Change


Dutch Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations


Municipality of Amsterdam


Municipality of Rotterdam


Municipality of Leiden


Municipality of Tilburg


Municipality of Zaanstad


Municipality of Haarlem


Municipality of Zoetermeer


Province of Noord-Brabant


Province of Gelderland


Province of Noord-Holland


Province of Zuid-Holland


Province of Limburg


Province of Flevoland


Waterboard Noord-Hollands Noorderkwartier


Waterboard Rivierenland


Royal Properties Development


Jumbo


KPN


Centraal Orgaan opvang Asielzoekers (COA)


Municipality of Hilversum


Municipality of Utrechtse Heuvelrug


TenneT


Work highlights


  • Advised on the large-scale area development of 6,500 homes in phases and approximately 281,000 m2 GFA programmes for work and facilities on the North bank of the IJ in Amsterdam.
  • Advised The Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management and aircraft movements Schiphol regarding the limitation of the number of aircraft movements at Schiphol Airport
  • Advised WarmtelinQ is a heat transport pipeline between Vlaardingen and The Hague, which transports residual heat from the port of Rotterdam to the urban area in the Vlaardingen-Den Haag region and contributes significantly to the energy transition.

Stibbe

The planning and environment group at Stibbe is well-equipped to handle an array of complex mandates, particularly in a public law context. The team advises various reputable companies on high-stakes matters surrounding the enforcement of environmental regulations; on permit applications; and on contentious, high-profile cases in connection with topics such as ESG and zoning. Overseeing the practice are planning, mobility and administrative law specialist Jan Reinier van AngerenAnna Collignon, who acts for several heavy-industry companies and has expertise in nitrogen-related cases; renewables-focused Jan van Oosten‘expert lawyer’ Valérie van ’t LamTijn Kortmann, who handles matters with enforcement and government liability aspects; and Tom Barkhuysen. Senior associates Liesbeth Berkouwer and Rut Molenaar-Wingens support on many of the team’s most prominent mandates.

Practice head(s):

Jan Reinier van Angeren; Anna Collignon; Jan van Oosten; Valérie van ‘t Lam; Tijn Kortmann; Tom Barkhuysen


Other key lawyers:

Sophie Ravelli


Testimonials

‘Not only is the team’s involvement and interest in the problems facing our company excessive, but they are also all pleasant people to work with.’

‘Valérie van ‘t Lam and Sophie Ravelli are two expert lawyers who combine expertise with a proactive approach to cases. Agreements are always fulfilled promptly – a better combination cannot be imagined.’

‘Experts with in-depth knowledge across the full-range of environmental legislation available to provide practical advice.’

‘Different fields of expertise are thoroughly represented in the easily accessible team.’

‘They are reliable and offer a swift turnaround – theoretical and pragmatic at the same time.’

‘The team offers pragmatic advice of a high quality, knows our company and business, is quick in responding, and has a lot of knowledge of the relevant market. Stibbe is a really professional law firm.’

‘Jan van Oosten has a lot of substantive knowledge and is a really pragmatic lawyer. He has a lot of knowledge of the market, our company and our needs. His advice is to the point. His associates also have a lot of relevant knowledge.’

‘Anna Collignon is the key lead partner assisted by 4-5 associates that replenish, replace and strengthen one another. They assist and advise not only to the letter, but also to the spirit of the law and they know how to use that in a tactical way to the client’s advantage.’

Key clients

Afvalzorg


Ahold


Air Liquide


Albemarle


Antargaz


Circuit Park Zandvoort


Cosun Beet Company


DAF Trucks, part of Paccar


DSM


DVM


Energy Production Company Zeeland


Greif


GroenLeven


Heineken


KLM


McDonalds


Ministry of Defence


Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management


Municipalities of Amstelveen, Blaricum, Leeuwarden


Neinver


Normec


NXP Semiconductors


PALLAS


Plaza Foods


Red Bull


RWE


Sibelco


SilverFalcon


Smurfit Kappa


Stuwadoorsmaatschappij Kruwal


Tessenderlo Group


Work highlights


  • Assisted a coalition of brewers in enforcement actions of the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate, including preliminary relief proceedings before the Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State.
  • Advising Nobian on the permit application for their new salt extraction site, which is critical for the future of Nobian’s salt extraction activities.
  • Representing KLM in proceedings at the Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State and in its defence against greenwashing claims brought by NGO Fossielvrij NL (in co-operation with ClientEarth) in a collective action.

Van der Feltz Advocaten

Van der Feltz Advocaten‘s ‘high-quality and enthusiastic’ planning and environment group, based in The Hague, is well regarded for its ‘ability to find creative and practical solutions’. Its workload includes assisting its roster of clients on matters ranging from advising on large-scale transformation plans and assisting with negotiations surrounding high-value environmental-related guarantees pertaining to regulations in the Netherlands to contentious issues involving such complex aspects as unlawful GDPR violation connected to environmental monitoring. A ‘smart lawyer with broad knowledge’, Willem Bosma is at the helm of the team and leads on many of its most prominent matters, alongside real estate specialist Willem van der Werf. Other key practitioners include the ‘outstanding’ heavy industry-focused senior associate Pauline van Aardenne.

Practice head(s):

Willem Bosma; Willem van der Werf


Other key lawyers:

Jacques Sluysmans; Simon Olierook; Pauline van Aardenne


Testimonials

‘The team has all the necessary expertise as well as an expert and practical approach to the issues at hand and the clients’ best interests at heart.’

‘Fast and to-the-point. They take a practical approach to the issue and tailor advice to the client’s needs.’

‘Van der Feltz has an outstanding reputation and is a very strong competitor. They have experience on all relevant aspects of real estate law and projects. They are professional and try to get the best results for their clients.’

Key clients

Omgevingsdienst Zuid-Holland Zuid


Omgevingsdienst West-Holland


Province of South-Holland


Neptune Energy Netherlands B.V.


Vermilion Energy Netherlands B.V.


Van Wijnen Groep B.V.


Dura Vermeer Groep N.V.


Shurgard Nederland B.V.


Shell Nederland B.V.


N.V. Nederlandse Gasunie


Vattenfall N.V.


Picnic B.V.


TSH Management B.V.


Dunea N.V.


Work highlights


  • Advised on a new policy framework for the transformation of a historic industrial complex and a Netherlands nature reserve, created in the form of the Transformation Plan Update.
  • Advising NAM and negotiating for NAM about a €500m guarantee under the 1983 Agreement between NAM, the Province of Groningen and several water boards on soil subsidence due to natural gas extraction.
  • Advising and representing the province of South Holland regarding several matters connected to the Chemours/Delrin plant.

Allen & Overy LLP

The ‘agile and flexible’ environment and planning cohort at Allen & Overy LLP has a strong reputation for its capabilities handling complex contentious matters for its portfolio of clients. The team also provides advice on all aspects of project developments. ‘Star’ practitioner Jochem Spaans heads up the team with particular strength in industry, climate change and energy-related projects. He is supported at the helm by counsel Marinus Winters, who is focused on regulatory aspects of gas and electricity markets. Senior associate Rob van der Hulle is definitely one to watch’ with a developing specialism in compliance and spatial planning, in particular.

Practice head(s):

Jochem Spaans; Marinus Winters


Other key lawyers:

Rob var der Hulle


Testimonials

‘Jochem Spaans is sharp, hands-on and has good availability.’

‘The team shows the complete skillset in all required fields, with an agile and flexible approach in supporting clients. The team collaborates effectively with various departments on the client side.’

‘Flexible and professional in filling in all of the gaps in legal expertise on the client side.’

Key clients

EdgeConneX


HyCC


KLM


Flink


Gemini Wind


Uniper


Hembrug Zaandam


Vattenfall


Castleton Commoditities


Nikon


Sloecentrale


Work highlights


  • Acting as lead permitting, zoning and public law counsel for EdgeConneX in respect of the development and operation of several data centres.
  • Advising Uniper on the forced shut-down of its coal fired power plant located on the Maasvlakte (Port of Rotterdam).
  • Advising project developer Hembrug Zaandam in respect of the redevelopment of the Hembrug area, a former defence site.

De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek

De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek houses a team of lawyers who provide a ‘high standard of legal advice’ in the environment and planning space. In addition to complex advisory work, the team handles an array of contentious matters. Environment and energy focused practitioner Arjan Kleinhout took over leadership of the practice in January 2023 following the departure of former team head Nicolien Van Den Biggelaar to a state council position in the same month. The team’s client portfolio includes prominent names such as the Royal Schipol Group and Shell. Counsel Jasper van Uden is well-regarded for his ability to ‘communicate even the most complex legal cases in an understandable manner’. Senior associate Claire Van Der Hoeven departed in March 2023.

Practice head(s):

Arjan Kleinhout


Other key lawyers:

Jasper van Uden; Max Kaumo


Testimonials

‘Fit-for-purpose advice. The team is able to give excellent legal advice on short notice and are very pleasant to work with.’

‘They provide high standard legal advice, with attention to important details. They are very well-prepared and have broad experience of legal matters that may occur in our business.’

‘The unique strength of De Brauw lies in their personal yet collective approach – while there is an expert lawyer working on our cases, we feel the value of the added colleagues and partners at the firm.’

‘Their expertise and knowledge is top-level and the team is willing to brainstorm on ideas, questions and new insights regarding new legislation and jurisprudence, rather than just sending updates. We can put our heads together and create a think tank to reach valuable, long-term, risk-assessed solutions.’

‘The complexity and number of cases that we handle with De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek is high, yet they never fail to keep a bird’s eye overview and to guide us through various processes with absolute clarity.’

‘We especially value the governmental and administrative sensitivity the lawyers we work with display.’

‘Jasper van Uden has the ability to communicate even the most complex legal cases in an understandable manner.’

‘The lawyers have a down-to-earth approach, good availability, and their creativity and willingness to look for solutions rather than to fight legal battles unnecessarily stands out.’

Key clients

Royal Schiphol Group


Chemelot


Sitech


Gasunie


TenneT


GasTerra


Stichting Afvalfonds Verpakkingen


Shell


Varo Energy


Enphase Energy


NEA/GKN


Work highlights


  • Acting as lead counsel in the Porthos CCUS project, the first large CCUS project in the Netherlands to cut carbon emissions in the atmosphere by storing CO2 in a depleted gas field in the North Sea.
  • Advising Royal Schiphol Group and representing them in litigation on the impact of a landmark ruling of the Council of State about the Dutch nitrogen policy under the Nature Conservation Act.
  • Acting as lead counsel to Gasunie and the Port of Rotterdam in connection with the large-scale heat-distribution network known as WarmtelinQ.

Hemwood

Real estate boutique firm Hemwood has strong expertise advising on complex planning and environment matters, including development, expansion and transformation projects. It handles significant zoning and planning mandates for its portfolio of clients, and often assists with ESG considerations in connection with projects work. ‘Top-notch’ Eefje M. Van Bommel and Gijs Heutink co-lead the practice, which has seen significant growth: Monique Laenen and senior associate Elsbeth Meijboom notably bolstered the team with their September 2022 arrival from DLA Piper. Laenen is particularly experienced in matters pertaining to the preservation of iconic buildings. Senior associate Su Chun Li also joined from Florent in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

Eefje M. van Bommel; Gijs Heutink


Other key lawyers:

Monique Laenen; Sjors Zuethoff; Iskander Haverkate


Testimonials

‘Eefje van Bommel is a professional – great to work with.’

‘Eefje van Bommel is top-notch in every respect’

‘Hemwood has a very direct, personal and hands-on approach.’

‘The partners of Hemwood are very engaged in the process. Gijs Heutink and Eefje van Bommel are involved in different negotiations and collaborations and are assisted by the firm where needed. Both partners have excellence knowledge of the industry and the ability to take their work beyond the legal assignment given.’

‘I’ve worked with the environment and planning team for two decades. We’ve never lost a case against the government and better, we seldom go to court because the team protects us with correct and timely advice on cases.’

‘The individuals involved are clever and precise. Eefje van Bommel and associate Sjors Zuethoff are both safe hands to feel in and we feel protected with both of them.’

‘Hemwood partners and executives are an essential part of our company.’

‘Eefje provides excellent guidance and is up-to-date on the law.’

Key clients

Achmea Real Estate


Ahold


AM Real Estate Developments


Amvest


APF International


ASR


Being Development


Bridges (Vermaat Groep)


Borghese


Breevast


Caransa


Centrum voor Zorg/Zadelhoff


COD


CompaNanny


Cromwell


De Jong Groep


Europa Capital


Forma Real Estate Funds


HBB Groep


Heren2


Hillborgh


Hoorne Vastgoed


KNSF Vastgoed


Koopmans Bouwgroep


Maarsen Groep


Montea


NEOO


Open development


Patrizia


Peak Development


Redevco


Rotterdam Urban Development


Sanquin


Snipes


Stichting Plantijn


Timeless


Van der Valk Investments B.V.


Van Herk Groep


Vastint


VolkerWessels


Vomar


Wereldhave N.V.


Zadelhoff


Zalmhaven C.V.


Zinc RE


Work highlights


  • Advising Sanquin on the redevelopment, expansion and transformation of the New West Health and Innovation District in the Western part of Amsterdam (120.000 m2).
  • Advised Amvest on a multipurpose redevelopment of app. 6.400.000 m2 at Rijnenburg Quarter in Utrecht for a combined development of energy-fields, sustainable housing (25,000 apartments and houses), business and urban purpose areas and high end (public) transport solutions.
  • Advising Centrum voor Zorg/Zadelhoff on a complex development of the former Amsterdam Slotervaart Hospital to health care, office space, and residential (120.000 m2 bvo).

NautaDutilh

NautaDutilh’s planning and environment practice has a particular focus on non-contentious advisory work, including advising on matters such as the development of large-scale onshore projects, and on offshore wind projects. Additionally, the team assists companies with their ESG reporting. ‘Highly experienced’ team lead Iris Kieft has expertise in the legal aspects of climate change, the circular economy, and energy. Counsel Anke Holtland is a name to note. Departures from the team include those of former co-leads Stephan Sluiter, who left for independent practice in May 2023, and of Jolize Lautenbach who took on a judicial position in December 2023. Associate Arjen Praat also departed in April 2023.

Practice head(s):

Iris Kieft


Other key lawyers:

Anke Holtland; Mirjam von Meijenfeldt; Eline van Leeuwen


Testimonials

‘NautaDutilh’s environment and planning team consists of a group of enthusiastic, hardworking and very knowledgeable lawyers. The majority of the team is female, including the partners and counsel, which makes the team stand out on a diversity point of view compared to other big law firms.’

‘Anke Holtland is a very practical, smart and experienced lawyer. She is thorough in her legal analysis and is, as a person, a delight to work with.’

‘Iris Kieft is a highly experienced lawyer in the field of environmental law. She is a great sparring partner and her love for the profession shows in her interactions.’

‘The environment & planning team at NautaDutilh has the highest standards when it comes to legal and sector knowledge. They really go the extra mile to serve the practical needs of the client, while maintaining a cordial and warm working environment.’

‘Iris Kieft has a strong drive, great analytical skills and extensive sector knowledge. Combined with her composed and approachable character she is a great boardroom advisor and sparring partner for large enterprises in the industrial or energy sector.’

‘Eline van Leeuwen is skilled, driven and sociable. She is able to perform under pressure while safeguarding good relationships with the client and other stakeholders. Eline gets the job done.’

‘Expertise and skills are prevalent and the team is service-oriented.’

‘Iris Kieft and her team has in depth knowledge of environmental remediation matters in the Netherlands. She offers expertise on local and EU law as well as common sense approaches for how businesses can manage risks and their relationship with environmental regulators.’

Key clients

ABN AMRO


AFS Group


ChemCom Industries


Chemelot Industrial Area


Dutch E-Waste Foundation


EIG Partners


Eneco


ENGIE


Frank Energie


Gunvor


HAL Investments


Lineage


Municipality Amsterdam


Municipality Noordoostpolder


National Park De Hoge Veluwe


Nebras Power


Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij


Neste


Nobian


Norwegian Packaging Association


Nouryon


OCI


Olam Cocoa


SABIC


Shell


Stichting Papier Recycling Nederland


TABS


TenneT


Total Energies


Work highlights


  • Representing TenneT in legal proceedings regarding TenneT’s project Zuid-West 380 kV Oost.
  • Assisting Olam Cocoa on a wide-range of complex environmental law mandates, including litigation before the administrative courts in relation to the renewed license to operate for Olam’s cocoa production facilities in the Netherlands and negotiating a community agreement on the reduction of ammonia emissions.
  • Advised Shell and Eneco’s joint venture Ecowende on its successful offshore wind tender for Hollandse Kust West Alpha in the North Sea.

NewGround Law B.V.

NewGround Law B.V.‘s ‘excellent’ planning and environment practice is experienced in assisting its list of clients, which features key developers, on all aspects of large-scale real estate development and redevelopment projects, including advising on environmental impact assessments. Public law expert Anne-Marie Klijn leads on many of the team’s most preeminent matters, André Gaastra  has broad expertise across real estate and environmental law, and climate change and planning expert Erwin Noordover is also a key contact; the three co-head the practice. In April 2023, associate Pieter van der Woerd  departed, while associate Arjen Praat joined from NautaDutilh.

Practice head(s):

Anne-Marie Klijn; André Gaastra; Erwin Noordover


Other key lawyers:

Arjen Praat


Testimonials

‘An excellent team with great partners far above anyone else in the market for wind energy.’

‘Excellent work and know-how amongst the team which is formed of practitioners with dependable personalities.’

‘The people we work with at NewGround Law are very precise, up-to-date and easy accessible as well as fun to work with!’

‘Anne-Marie Klijn has shown for over the 20 years I have worked with her that she is top-class in her field of interest. She also shows a broader perspective on related issues which makes her an outstanding person to challenge our own ideas.’

Key clients

Eneco


Waterschap Rijn en IJssel


Pure Energie


Ventolines


Windunie


Prowind


Egeria Real Estate Development B.V.


Green Real Estate


AM


Boelens De Gruyter


Breevast B.V.


Center Parcs Europe N.V.


Deka Immobilien Investment GmbH


Flow Real Estate B.V.


G&S Vastgoed B.V.


Greystar


Janssen de Jong Projectontwikkeling B.V.


Remeha B.V./ BDR Thermea Group B.V.


Lingotto Utrecht B.V.


OVG Real Estate


Edge Technologies


Provast


Stichting Gebiedsontwikkeling aan de Maas (STIGAM)


NSI Development B.V.


WestInvest Gesellschaft für Investmentfonds mbH


Pelt & Hooykaas B.V.


ICL Fertilizers Europe C.V.


Work highlights


  • Advising Boelens de Gruyter, BPD (Bouwfonds property management), AM, Greystar, Janssen de Jong, and Lingotto as legal project managers for the transformation of the Merwedekanaalzone in Utrecht into approx. 4.000-6.000 apartments, and other functions, including the defence of the project in court.
  • Advising real estate developer Edge Technologies Development with all public law aspects (such as zoning etc., also taking into account the recent municipal plans, policy documents, and the environmental impact assessment for the area and nitrogen deposition.
  • Assisting the international ICL group with all public law aspects of the development of a brand new plant in the Amsterdam docks, as well as with the closure of their current plant in Amsterdam that has been operational since 1907.

Ploum

‘True joy to work with’ Alexandra Danopoulos, and ‘benchmark lawyer in the field’ Maayke Maas are at the helm of Ploum's Rotterdam-based planning and environment offering. Its client portfolio includes reputable names, from BP and Shell to Rotterdam Airport B.V. It assists said clients with a range of matters including those involving environmental and permitting aspects of new development projects of significant value, such as assisting Shell in obtaining a permit for Europe’s largest hydrogen plant. Brigitte Ebben is a key practitioner in the team who has a focus on environmental law and nature conservation issues, particularly those pertaining to nitrogen deposition.

Practice head(s):

Maayke Maas; Alexandra Danopoulos


Other key lawyers:

Brigitte Ebben; Linda Hoeben


Testimonials

‘An approachable team with a good spread of expertise and down-to-earth style. They understand the business their clients are in and adapt accordingly. Good value for money too.’

‘Alexandra Danopoulos is knowledgeable, provides very useable advice and has a great sense of humour. A true joy to work with.’

‘The Ploum Rotterdam environment and energy team has a proven track-record and is respected through out our industry for their provision of hands-on support. Always quick, to the point and pragmatic, they are true experts who get the job done.’

‘Maayke Maas is the benchmark lawyer in the field. A great character with a deep understanding of the field of expertise and always available to help out.’

‘Short response times, excellent legal knowledge, efficient and effective work and good availability.’

‘The way Ploum operates is very hands-on in a positive way – the team feels like an extension of your own organisation. At the same time, they have the ability to zoom out and advice you as an external partner.’

‘Both Linda and Alexandra are skilled with the right knowledge. They are also easy to work with and able to transfer their knowledge to the client.’

‘Maayke Maas is top-notch when it comes to environmental law.’

Key clients

BP Alternative Energy Investments Ltd


BP International Limited


CrossWind C.V.


HG International B.V.


Vitol Tank Terminals B.V.


Eurotank Amsterdam B.V.


Westpoort Warmte B.V.


OCI Nitrogen B.V.


OCI N.V.


OCI Terminal Europoort B.V.


Havenbedrijf Rotterdam (Rotterdam Port Authority)


Raad voor Accreditatie (Dutch Accrediation Council)


VTTI Nederland B.V.


VTTI B.V.


BP Raffinaderij Rotterdam B.V.


BP Europa SE – BP Nederland


BP Oil International Limited


Shell Nederland Raffinaderij B.V.


Shell Nederland Chemie B.V.


Shell Europoort B.V.


The Dow Chemical Company


Dow Benelux B.V.


Chemours Netherlands B.V.


Zeeland Refinery N.V.


Koole Botlek Terminal B.V.


Koole Terminals B.V.


Oiltanking Amsterdam B.V.


Troy Moerdijk B.V.


TEAM Terminal B.V.


Maasvlakte Europoort Terminal


Haan Oil Storage


Rubis Terminal B.V.


Samsung Electronics Benelux B.V.


Unilever Nederland B.V.


Aluminium & Chemie Rotterdam B.V.


Boskalis Nederland B.V.


Dura Vermeer Bouw Midden West B.V.


Dura Vermeer Groep N.V.


BAM Vastgoed B.V.


BAM Wonen B.V.


AM Grondbedrijf B.V.


Eneco B.V.


N.V. Nuon


Vattenfall N.V.


NPO (Netherlands Public Broadcasting Institution)


TSH Management B.V.


Municipality of Maassluis


Municipality of Nissewaard


Municipality of Dongen


Municipality of Capelle aan den IJssel


Rekenkamer van de Gemeente Rotterdam (Court of Auditors of the Municipality of Rotterdam)


M7 Real Estate


ATM B.V.


Remondis Dusseldorp Gevaarlijk Afval B.V.


Vereniging Nederlandse Petroleum Industrie (VNPI)


Motip Dupli B.V.


Damen Shipyards Group N.V.


Rotterdam Airport B.V.


Eindhoven Airport N.V.


VOTOB (Vereniging van Nederlandse Tankopslagbedrijven)


Noord-Europees Wijnopslag Bedrijf B.V.


Hansteen Netherlands B.V.


Biopetrol Rotterdam B.V.


Rail Service Center Rotterdam B.V.


Gate Terminal B.V.


Van Oord Nederland B.V.


Work highlights


  • Advising VTTI B.V. on the environmental and permitting aspects of the realisation of a new LNG-terminal.
  • Advising EemsEnergy Terminal B.V. on the environmental and permitting aspects of the realisation of a new LNG-terminal.
  • Assisting Shell on obtaining permits for the largest hydrogen plant in Europe.

Straatman Koster Advocaten

At the helm of Straatman Koster Advocaten‘s Rotterdam-based environment and planning practice are real estate expert Joost Hoekstra, who has broad experience in project development matters, and the ‘service-focused’ Marinda de Smidt, who alongside associate Najoua Haireche, is an ‘expert in the Nature Conservation Act’. The practice has significant experience handling matters regarding zoning aspects of new developments in the energy sector in particular. Additionally, it is well-equipped to advise on environmental matters, such as advising and litigating for the Province of Ultrecht on licensing regulations surrounding the shooting of birds and foxes. Team changes include the departure of Anne Marie Ferwerda to an in-house role in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

Marinda de Smidt; Joost Hoekstra


Other key lawyers:

Najoua Haireche; Maaike de Wit; Simon Tichelaar; Tosca van Halsema


Testimonials

‘Solid and comprehensive advice is provided at very competitive rates.’

‘Marinda de Smidt is very easy to approach, hands-on with clients, and offers practical solutions to issues.’

‘Good knowledge on the specific issues and good insight into local issues.’

‘They can always be reached and work quickly and diligently. They are also pleasant people to work with, which makes it easy to call on them. They always deliver on time for a fair price. They are also down-to-earth and always seem genuinely happy to be of service to us.’

‘Marinda de Smit and Najoua Haireche are experts in the Nature Conservation Act. They are also very accessible and willing to act quickly if necessary.’

‘Straatman’s lawyers are accessible, deliver customer-oriented work, and are flexible and meticulous in the execution of their tasks.’

‘The people that work at Straatman Koster are friendly, ask the right questions and are also very helpful and knowledgeable.’

‘The teams covers the full spectrum of environmental law and are collaborative with clients.’

Key clients

BPD


Schiphol Area Development Company


Municipality of Rotterdam


Municipality of Leiden


Municipality of Gouda


Emborion Real Estate


MRP Development


Klépierre S.A.


Vorm Ontwikkeling


Municipality of Almere


Municipality of Gooise Meren


Municipality of The Haque


Amvest


Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy (Netherlands Enterprise Agency)


Municipality of Tholen


Province of Zuid-Holland


Green Park Aalsmeer Gebiedsontwikkeling


Municipality of Hoeksche Waard


Province of Utrecht


Leiden University


Municipality of Ronde Venen


Municipality of Nijmegen


Refresco


AVR waste management


Dutch Waste Management Association


Municipality of Amstelveen


ABN Amro N.V.


Urbicoon (Belgium)


Red Company


Being Development


PWC


DHG


Work highlights


  • Advised and litigated for the Province of Utrecht on a ground-breaking case regarding licences to shoot foxes to protect severely endangered birds.
  • Advised Gunvor Energy Rotterdam regarding a green hydrogen import terminal.
  • Advised Amvest on a zoning plan in Eindhoven for a large residential project with complex zoning issues.

Van Doorne

Van Doorne‘s environment and planning team has a strong reputation advising its roster of clients, which includes names such as Shell International BV and ProRail BV. Cees Kniestedt and Ingeborg Wind-Middel co-head the team, which consists of specialists in the field, including Jeanette Ozinga, who is particularly focused on matters involving environmental industrial issues, and administrative law expert Jan van der Grinten. Senior associate Pim Jansen bolstered the cohort with his July 2023 arrival from NewGround Law B.V..

Practice head(s):

Ingeborg Wind-Middel; Cees Kniestedt; Jeanette Ozinga; Jan van der Grinten


Other key lawyers:

Victor van Ahee; Annerie Ploumen


Testimonials

‘Van Doorne team excels in guiding clients through compliance and rules-related work. Important attributes include their knowledge, the quality of the work they produce, and their communication and collaborative abilities.’ 

‘Jeanette Ozinga has been an authority in her field of environmental law, especially on waste and veterinary aspects. She has clear vision and understanding of the law, and is a great sparring partner for clients.’

‘Ingeborg Wind is very knowledgeable, pleasant to communicate with and available when needed. She delivers, even when deadlines are tight.’

‘Cees Kniestedt is one of the most knowledgeable lawyers in the Dutch environmental and zoning field. He is also extremely pragmatic and reasonable in negotiations through his ability to quickly find the reasonable middle ground that works for both parties.’

‘Cees Kniestedt is relaxed and very practical – a lot of knowledge, combined with a great sense of humour. This makes him an exception in the law firms I know.’

‘Annerie Ploumen is outstanding in her capabilities of working very hard to achieve what the client wants.’

‘Jeanette Ozinga really brings to the team her environmental and waste capabilities.’

‘Ingebord Wind is able to see beyond the immediate concerns to give advice that addresses the real problems that can lurk beneath the surface.’

Key clients

The Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations


ProRail BV


Municipality of Emmen


Hornbach Holding Nederland


Argent Energy Netherlands Holding B.V.


Shell International BV


BioMCN


Neste Netherlands BV


Friesland Campina DMV BV


Work highlights


  • Advising the Taskforce Versnelling Tijdelijke Huisvesting; within a year the VanDoorne team advised over 70 local governments on material planning and environment issues as well as on legal project management.
  • Advising ProRail on the imposition of a demand for compliance by the Minister of Social Affairs and Employment to prescribe and ensure the use of low or no quartz content material with respect to rail infrastructure projects.
  • Advising and representing Friesland Campina in several ongoing legal proceedings initiated by the environmental organisations against decisions of local environmental departments regarding the granting of permits (external netting) and permit conditions.

BarentsKrans

Real estate and project development-focused Nicole Soliana is at the helm of BarentsKrans‘ The Hague-based planning and environment offering. The team has extensive experience in public law, and its work includes advising on planning aspects of large-scale developments, assisting with zoning and environmental issues, among others. Remco Bäcker and Jesse Zijlma are both key members of the practice.

Practice head(s):

Nicole Soliana


Other key lawyers:

Remco Bäcker; Jesse Zijlma


Testimonials

‘Knowledge, reliability, advice and putting the customer’s interests first are all key attributes of the team.’

‘In-depth knowledge of and experience in this area of law.’

‘They combine civil law expertise and administrative law expertise in one team.’

‘They can consider a case from different perspectives which helps the client to find the best solutions. They do not hesitate to ask a lawyer from another law firm to cooperate with them, which shows that they always act in the best interest of the client.’

‘From my perspective what makes them different is that – in the interest of clients – they are able to integrate us into their work like we are part of the same team.’

‘Cooperating with Nicole Soliana and Remco Bäcker is very easy. Both of them are great in their areas of law. I know them as very critical on the details that matter.’

‘They are more than able to help the client on a more strategic (political) level as well as the usual.’

Key clients

Azon


Daka Rotterdam Zuid


Ducor Petrochemicals


KPN


LSI


Municipality of The Hague


Municipality of Voorne aan Zee


Rabobank Nederland


Van Omme & De Groot


Work highlights


  • Advised Rabobank with regard to various aspects of planning and environment concerning the development of their new office buildings and 175 apartments in the city of Utrecht.
  • Represented Daka Rotterdam Zuid and J.P.G. Veranda in legal proceedings against the zoning plan “Feyenoord City” in Rotterdam.
  • Advised on behalf of LSI and J.P. van Eesteren with respect to a development area in Rotterdam and the right of first refusal of the municipality of Rotterdam and advising LSI on all environmental aspects related to this matter.

CMS

Counsel Alexander IJkelenstam leads the ‘diverse and very hands-on’ planning and environment team at CMS, with support from the ‘massively helpful’ Martika Jonk. The team advises on environmental and zoning aspects of significant project development schemes in The Netherlands, while also demonstrating capabilities handling work in cross-jurisdictional contexts. Its client portfolio includes well-known names such as McDonalds Netherlands. Former team lead Luurt Wildeboer departed in December 2022.

Practice head(s):

Alexander IJkelenstam


Other key lawyers:

Martika Jonk


Testimonials

‘Really pragmatic lawyers, able to provide solid legal advice with commercial sensibility.’

‘Martika Jonk is experienced and knowledgeable which is massively helpful when dealing with complex regulatory issues, in our case in relation to decommissioning liability.’

‘Advice is solid from a legal perspective but also useful from practical perspective.’

‘It is a diverse and very hands-on team. We love their pragmatic approach.’

‘A very hands-on and pragmatic team who take their place in the driver’s seat.’

Key clients

Beverwijkse Bazaar B.V.


Royal Dutch Hockey Association


McDonald’s Nederland B.V.


Borghese Logistics (Borghese LP II B.V.)


Rotterdam Leisure Group B.V.


Green Led Walls (GLW Deventer Vastgoed B.V.)


Work highlights


  • Advised Borghese Logistics successfully on the purchase of nitrogen emission rights from a livestock farm in order to apply for a nature permit for the construction and operation of an XXL distribution centre.
  • Advised McDonald’s Nederland B.V. on opening a restaurant in the Zuidas Business District in Amsterdam.
  • Advised Rotterdam Leisure Group B.V. on its appeal against a zoning plan with developments hampering its operations which include a restaurant, café, minigolf course, laser game, escape room, and two river cruises.

Dentons

Dentons‘ planning and environment offering has ‘expert in his field’ Jan Jakob Peelen at its helm. The team covers the range of public law expertise, from zoning and planning, which is a key focus area for Valentijn Leijh, to renewables work, where Peelen brings particular experience. The practice is also well equipped to handle disputes, including on topics such as nitrogen deposits and battery storage.

Practice head(s):

Jan Jakob Peelen


Other key lawyers:

Valentijn Leijh


Testimonials

‘We have nothing but praise for Jan Jakob Peelen and his team. They are seen as an extension of our team.’

‘Jan Jakob is our go-to person when there are complicated questions; he is an expert in his field, able to translate complicated legal topics in plain language with strong work ethics.’

‘The team has the skills, knowledge and expertise necessary to conduct public law proceedings. Advice is clear and input into proceedings is very professional. Administration and billing is very well done. It is very pleasant working with the team.’

‘There is an enormous practical experience present as well as good track records in terms of procedures. Very good and pleasant communication too.’

‘The ability of the staff to dive deep into technical matters and act as a substantive sparring partner in order to best serve the legal interests of us as a client stands out.’

‘Jan Jakob Peelen is a very experienced lawyer with a lot of environmental know-how who knows how to appreciate our interests and defends them well during various lawsuits.’

‘Extensive knowledge on the topics that we have deal with as a company and good capabilities to swiftly interact with each other to get the right team together for the case at hand. Open and transparent communication in order to understand the needs of us as clients.’

‘Experts in understanding the case at hand. Good at understanding our needs but also patient with us when explaining the legal constraints or articles in the law to us, since our company are not legal experts. Always approachable.’

Key clients

De Bijenkorf


CORUM


Pathé


Eurus Energy


Gate Terminal


Merem


Pinnacle


PLUS


RWE


Shell


Veolia


Union Investment


HVBM


BASF


GMB


Tradiro Park B.V.


TotalEnergies


VEMOBIN


Stichting VU


Hartwig Art foundation


Gasunie


Gidara Energy


GIGA Storage


Low Carbon


Solarfields


Work highlights


  • Advising RWE Offshore on all regulatory and permitting issues regarding the 760MW “Hollandse Kust West VII” development, located in the North Sea.
  • Advising GMB on all planning and permitting aspects of the expansion of the Bonegraaf business park, enabling the entire development of the new extension Bonegraaf-Oost.
  • Activist groups object to Veolia’s biomass power plant in Arnhem on the basis that the production process is allegedly polluting and contravenes European environmental and nature protection legislation.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper‘s planning and environment team, noted for its ‘efficient approach’, is experienced assisting its client base with an array of matters, and is led by Arjen De Snoo, who primarily focuses on planning, zoning, environmental and nature preservation work. The work portfolio includes advice on related joint ventures, acquisitions and redevelopment projects. Senior associate Ernst Haverkamp is a key practitioner, described as ‘interested, responsive and creative’. 

Practice head(s):

Arjen de Snoo


Other key lawyers:

Ernst Haverkamp


Testimonials

‘They are internationally oriented and understand the Dutch legal system.’

‘Arjen de Snoo is very pleasant’

‘The environment and planning DLA Piper team works very quickly and efficiently. It was evident from the beginning that the team is well-versed in Dutch environmental law, and has real world experience pertaining to permitting procedures.’

‘The team is capable of grasping the presented issues rapidly which results in fast and efficient completion of outstanding work. Furthermore, the team acts proactively and, where necessary, creatively in working out certain outstanding issues (contractual or otherwise).’

‘Ernst Haverkamp is proactive, knowledgeable, interested, responsive and creative. Arjen de Snoo is experienced, interested, responsive and proactive.’

‘An efficient approach and a clear team lead who involves colleagues when appropriate. Skilled in managing large transactions and various workflows.’

‘Approachable and responsive as a team.’

‘We have found DLA Piper’s environment and planning law team to be knowledgeable, trustworthy, and responsive. They have helped us achieve our goals.’

Key clients

BASF


Deutsche Finance International (DFI)


Waterland Real Estate (WRE)


GLP


ING and Rabobank


NH Hotel Group


Prologis


PWN


Amvest


Kondor Wessels


RED Company


Safestore


SEGRO PLC


Unilever


Work highlights


  • Representing Kabeldistrict, a joint venture by Amvest and Kondor Wessels, in the legal proceedings regarding the redevelopment of an industrial site in Delft, to develop a mixed use area with ca. 3.500 houses and 34.000 m2 business space.
  • Assisting SABIC in the legal proceedings regarding the waste water permit for the Chemelot site, a very complex permit which covers all the waste water of the users of the site, and contains a new innovative approach to substances.
  • Assisting and representing Prologis in negotiations and disputes with a municipality over the acquisition of a greenfield site, linked to the ‘Didam’ case, in which the Supreme Court ruled that a public procedure with competition must also be followed when selling land.

Lexence

Lexence‘s environment and planning team is headed up by experienced public lawyer Michael Klijnstra who is adept handling both advisory and litigious matters in various contexts and is described as being ‘a great person to work with’. Zoning plans, building permits, compliance, and enforcement with regard to projects, developments and redevelopments are key areas of focus for the team.

Practice head(s):

Michael Klijnstra


Other key lawyers:

Pelin Oztürk


Testimonials

‘Michael Klijnstra is very pleasant to work with.’

‘You are in direct contact with the partner or senior associate, all of whom really offer pragmatic advice.’

‘Michael Klijnstra and Pelin Oztürk are a good team – it is pleasant to work with them. Michael fully trusts his associates.’

‘We can rely on the entire team. They are always ready to provide us with valuable legal advice.’

‘Michael Klijnstra was the primary reason for our firm to choose Lexence for legal advice. He is a great person to work with and in addition to his legal knowledge, he knows what is going on in the real estate market. In court, he can really make a difference with his pleas.’

‘Pelin Ozturk has been involved in various cases for many years and has become a very professional and knowledgeable lawyer. In addition, she is an extremely good representative of her office.’

‘The Lexence team is analytically strong and oversees the entire playing field from an administrative law perspective. The team is particularly highly specialized in environmental law and spatial planning.’

‘Michael Klijnstra is a great litigator. ’

Key clients

Citisense Property Group


PLTS Netherlands B.V.


Back Vastgoed


De Realisatie B.V.


Giga Storage B.V.


Hoogvliet Beheer B.V.


Midvast B.V.


Work highlights


Loyens & Loeff

The Rotterdam-based environment and planning practice at Loyens & Loeff is led by Guido Koop, who is supported by key practitioner Jan De Heer; both are regarded as ‘great sparring partners’ by clients. The team's advice ranges from topics such as the introduction of recycling systems to assisting with acquisitions and developments of significant projects. It also frequently handles compliance-related work.

Practice head(s):

Guido Koop


Other key lawyers:

Jan de Heer


Testimonials

‘I really value their legal counselling and the way we work with each other.’

‘Guido Koop and Jan de Heer are great sparring partners for us.’

‘The Loyens team showed great perseverance during the time we worked with them. They displayed ingenuity and creativity, which simply could not be matched by the opposing party.’

‘Needless to say, Loyens was invaluable to us.’

‘We had to navigate lots of uncertainties due to legislation that is still under development in our case. The insights provided by Loyens helped our company to take solid decisions and negotiate the best possible outcome for both parties.’

‘Guido Koop proved to be of great value to the project. Guido demonstrated immense in-depth knowledge on both local and national cases and was able to translate these insights to practical solutions that were beneficial to all parties involved.’

Key clients

Cargill


Jan Linders Supermarkets


The Blackstone Group


Flow Real Estate


bol.com


VORM Development


Goldman Sachs International


Provast Development


AXA


AEW


Liander


BPD


Pure Energie


Rijnmond Power Holding


Merin


Work highlights


  • Represented an ad-hoc consortium of the largest Dutch supermarkets successfully in interim relief proceedings in relation to the introduction of a recycling system for drinks cans.
  • Advising an international aerospace company on and assisting with discussions and enforcement procedures with national authorities regarding compliance in relation to the import of certain gases.
  • Advised VORM on several major projects, including the acquisition and redevelopment of the former Unilever factory site in Rotterdam, as well as on the development of a skyline defining 170m residential building in Rotterdam.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright‘s ‘diverse and open’ planning and environment team has significant expertise advising its portfolio of clients on the gamut of matters related to infrastructure and commercial projects, in particular. This includes advice regarding environmental permits, due diligence, contracts and compliance. Experienced practitioner in civil and administrative law Daphne Broerse heads up the practice. Former co-head of the team, counsel Bart Vis, departed the team in October 2022.

Practice head(s):

Daphne Broerse


Testimonials

‘They have a broad knowledge that can be applied to specific contracts and circumstances.’

‘NRF has detailed knowledge and relevant experience with administrative legislation.’

‘They can be used as a sparring partner and are willing to take on board the views of their client – they are not stuck with their own views.’

‘The NRF team is quick to respond and will allocate the resources required thereby striving for efficiency which keeps costs down.’

‘A diverse and open law firm – professional, hardworking, efficient and not over the top. I work with a variety of large law firms but rate the NRF team we work with above the others.’

‘We know and trust Daphne Broerse with our matters.’

‘Technical aspects are made understandable by them.’

‘Very pleasant in interactions and open in discussions, they have their own opinions but are willing to consider and explore other opinions where appropriate.’

Key clients

Attero B.V.


Macquarie Group


Rabobank


TBI PPP


Comol5 B.V.


Dura Vermeer


De Groene Boog B.V.


RWE AG


RWE Eemshydrogen


Advanced Methanol Amsterdam


Emerald Kalama Chemicals


Deliveroo


Rotterdam World Gateway


BNP Paribas


Sunrock


LBBW Bank


Work highlights


  • Advising RWE Eemshydrogen on the development of a new industrial-scale green hydrogen plant in Eemshaven, the Netherlands.
  • Advising De Groene Boog on various permitting and licensing questions and legal proceedings in respect of all permits required for the realization and long-term maintenance of the A13/A16 motorway expansion.
  • Advising chemical company Emerald Kalama Chemical on the operation of its chemical production site in the Port of Rotterdam.

Six Advocaten

Irma Van Den Berg, recognised for her provision of ‘well-thought through advice’, is at the helm of Six Advocaten‘s environment and planning practice. The team advises its portfolio of clients on a broad scope of matters, often including sustainability and ESG aspects of projects. it is also well equipped to handle zoning and permitting issues, which constitutes Anita Nijboer‘s particular area of expertise. ‘Sharp litigation lawyer’ Fleur Onrust, who joined from ENVIR Advocaten in March 2023, has a niche focus on nature conservation. Hanneke Ellerman is also key to the practice.

Practice head(s):

Irma van den Berg


Other key lawyers:

Hanneke Ellerman; Fleur Onrust; Anita Nijboer


Testimonials

‘Six Advocaten are formed of experienced, hands-on partners with good overall knowledge of the market and market practice, both from a domestic and from an international perspective – they understand the type of work product international clients like to see and we gladly engage them for real estate matters.’

‘Irma van den Berg is friendly, knowledgeable, available and responsive.’

‘They provide strong and professional info and advice in a timely fashion.’

‘Irma van den Berg gives her well thought-through advice and strategy and she comes up with strong solutions. It feels that lawyer and client are regarded as a team.’

‘Fleur Onrust is a very knowledgeable and sharp litigation lawyer with a keen eye on the regulatory framework, litigation strategy and legal process impact.’

Key clients

Amrâth Hotels


Bouwfonds Property Development (BPD)


Province of Limburg


Municipality of Amsterdam


HSB


Avandis (Lucas Bols)


CBRE Global Investors


Museum Voorlinden


Janssen de Jong


BCI-Global


Nationale Politie


Work highlights


  • Advised and litigated for GEM Bloemendalerpolder on a multi-phase urban development of 2.750 residences, which included complex regulatory issues in relation to nitrogen emissions, nature conservation, spatial planning and the hydrological regime.
  • Advised Avandis (Lucas Bols) on a revision of its environmental permit.
  • Advising the province of Limburg in relation to the expansion of VDL Nedcar’s production facilities and litigating for the province about permits based on the Nature Conservation Law for infringements on protected species.