The Manchester commercial property team at Addleshaw Goddard provides a full service offering, handling some of the region’s most prominent real estate matters. Peter Kershaw heads up the practice and is active across all sectors. Lucy Butterworth is praised for going ‘the extra mile’ when advising on build to rent and student accomodation deals. Experienced real estate transaction lawyers Patrick Duffy and Catherine Fearnhead regularly lead on key deals. Daniel Sweeney recently joined the team from TLT, bringing a wealth of experience in the retail and leisure sectors. Other key practitioners include Vicky Niescier. Legal director Emma Tonge left for Shoosmiths LLP.
Commercial property: Manchester in North West
Addleshaw Goddard
Practice head(s):
Peter Kershaw
Other key lawyers:
Lucy Butterworth; Vicky Niescier; Catherine Fearnhead; Patrick Duffy; Daniel Sweeney; Robin Warburton
Testimonials
‘The team is very conscientious, hard working and excellent in their drafting, understanding and explanations of the complexities involved in development transactions and the statutory and regulatory controls on us as their client.’
‘Entrepreneurial, commercial, collaborative, keen to align and understand clients needs and business. Very good at value add initiatives and wider business collaborations.’
‘Lucy Butterworth will go the extra mile.’
Key clients
abrdn
Access to Music
AIMS Investments
Allied London
Aviva Investors
Basil House Property Ltd
Batleys Properties Limited
Beech Brooklands Limited
boohoo.com
Bowrovia Estates 2020 Limited
British Land
Bruntwood Group of Companies
Canal & River Trust
Cole Waterhouse /Priestley Family
Co-operative Group of Companies
Crossfield Developments/Crossfield Group
Debenhams
De la Rue Plc
Denton Associates
Deloitte & Touch LLP
Drive Energi Limited
DP World London Gateway Group of Companies
Enitial Limited & Meritas Scientific Holdings Limited
Federated Hermes
Findon Homes
First Investments – REM Group of Companies
Gladman Developments
Gravity Media (UK) Limited
Greater Manchester Pension Fund
Grove Crescent Stratford Limited
Hallam Land
Hermes Wellington Place Site 1 Nominee
Hollins Strategic Land
Hurstwood Properties
HPREF I Konect Investments S.A.R.L
Ifor Williams Trailers / IWT Holdings Limited
InterSystems
JD Sports Fashion plc
Liberty Charge Limited
London Cyrenians Housing Limited
Lookers plc
MGH Card LLP
Manacor (Jersey) Ltd & Manacor Nominees (Jersey) Ltd (KWAP)
Mapeley Group of Companies
Maple Grove Developments
Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Limited
Miller Group of Companies
Mobile Data Systems International LTD
Moonpig.Com
Morning Foods
Muse Developments
National Grid Group of Companies
National Tyre Service Group
Nationwide Building Society
Network Rail
Northern Trust Group of Companies
One Heritage Plc Group of Companies
OCS Group of Companies
Park Moor Farm
Peel Cubico Renewables Limited
Peel Group of Companies
Peveril Securities Limited
Pinebridge Estates Limited
Pochin Midpoint Limited
Popeyes Chicken UK
Preston City Council
Prologis Group of Companies
Purepay Retail Limited (trading as Peacocks, Edinburgh Woollen Mill and Bon Marche)
Public Sector Plc Group of Companies
Redsun Group of Companies
Regener8 Power Limited
SGN Group of Companies
SSE Group of Companies
Salford City Council
Santander
Scunthorpe Properties Limited and Crossway Park Limited
Schroder Real Estate Investment Management
Stroma Specialist Access Limited
Swansway Garages
Sunhart Ltd
Telereal Trillium
Tim Horton’s
Thesleff Hospitality Group
Thomas Jones & Sons (Liverpool) Limited
Trustees of the Sidney Vaughan Gaskell Will Trust
T.R Ventures Limited
UK Biobank
UK PRS Fund
Vincent Limited
Vision Express
Vue Entertainment
Wasabi Co Limited
Watkin Jones PLC
Workspace Group PLC
Zerum Consulting
Work highlights
- Acting on the sale of the 37 acre creative, media, digital and tech hub known as MediaCityUK in Salford, Manchester.
- Acting for Bruntwood SciTech in relation to Birmingham Health Innovation Campus, which is being delivered (pursuant to a 10-year masterplan) through a collaboration between The University of Birmingham (as landowner) and Bruntwood SciTech (as developer and investor).
- Advised Standard Life Investments Property Holdings Limited on the acquisition and forward funding of the Glass Futures site in St Helens, a centre of excellence to make glass the low carbon, sustainable material of choice.
CMS
CMS has a broad commercial property practice notable for its involvement in the logistics and real estate sectors. The team is praised for their ‘trust, strong work ethic, solid fundamentals and a team ethos', often collaborating with the firm's newly-opened Liverpool office to advise on major regional regeneration projects. Real estate lawyer Mark Haywood heads up the practice and the firm's northern offices, specialising in forward funding structures and income strip deals across a range of sectors. Nathan Jansen has particular expertise in primary care developments and large-scale industrial structures, whilst Tanya Francis regularly advises businesses and local government bodies on regeneration schemes.
Practice head(s):
Mark Haywood
Other key lawyers:
Tanya Francis; Nathan Jansen
Testimonials
‘The CMS Manchester team provide a high quality service which combines solid legal fundamentals with commercial acumen. They are responsive and listen to the client needs and provide the legal advice to ensure the optimum outcome.’
‘Trust, strong work ethic, solid fundamentals and a team ethos.’
Key clients
Sainsburys
Mayfield Development Partnership
Arrow Capital Partners
Manchester Airport Group
Genr8 Developments
Far East Consortium
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Cerberus European Investments LLC
Barings Real Estate Asset Management
Tristan Capital
PIMCo
Work highlights
- Advising LandSec on its acquisition of a 75% stake in Peel Holdings (Media) Limited, therefore acquiring a majority stake in the holding structure for MediaCity UK, one of the largest media hubs outside London and the northern home to the BBC for £567.5m.
- Advising Mountpark Properties on the disposal of their pan-European logistics and distribution portfolio to JP Morgan for £465m.
- Advising Vita Group on the development, funding and stabilisation of Lewisham Exchange, a two tower development in South London, valued at approximately £250m.
Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP
The team at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP provide a comprehensive real estate service to a range of clients including developers, institutional investors, and corporate occupiers. The 'bespoke and practical' practice is led by Nancy Brown who specialises in corporate real estate, advising clients in the financial services, retail, and logistics sectors. Phillip Tunney regularly acts for clients in the healthcare sector, and Michael Buchanan advises a number of private and institutional investors on property acquisitions. Legal director Joanna Sowerby specialises in development deals and regeneration projects, whilst Elizabeth Cartwright has particular expertise in investment transactions and defence properties.
Practice head(s):
Nancy Brown
Other key lawyers:
Phillip Tunney; Joanna Sowerby; Elizabeth Cartwright; Michelle Millard; Jan Stott
Testimonials
‘Very responsive and accurate.’
‘Elizabeth Cartwright, Jan Stott and Michelle Millard are all excellent.’
‘Bespoke and practical – Eversheds has demonstrated strong commercial knowledge along with legal knowledge in their approach, which is refreshing. The partners have been exceptionally good at helping manage relationships with stakeholders.’
‘Phillip Tunney is a stand-out partner. He has a strong ability to approach situations from the perspective of the clients involved, and provide very useful advice in helping manage relationships and negotiations outside of the legal work.’
Key clients
AXA Investment Managers
Barchester
Booker
Capital & Regional
Castle Green Homes Limited
The Co-operative Bank PLC
English Cities Fund
Essar
Evans Property Group
Eurogarages
European Metal Recycling Limited
European Tyre Enterprise Limited/Kwik Fit
INEOS
Johnson Controls Inc
Kier Property Developments Limited
Lancaster (Jardine Motor Group)
Lookers PLC
Manchester Airport Group/ Airport City Limited Partnership
Morris Homes Limited
Muse Developments Limited
PH Property
Taylor Wimpey UK Limited
Toni & Guy
University of Manchester
General Projects
Work highlights
DLA Piper
DLA Piper‘s real estate team displays particular expertise in the development and investment sectors, working with local clients as well as international investment funds and institutional investors. Based in both Liverpool and Manchester, Alison Mills leads the team and regularly advises corporate occupiers in all asset classes. Mark Beardwood specialises in development deals, also splitting his time between both locations. Experienced real estate investment and development lawyer Tom Kelsall leads on key deals and continues to play a leading role in the practice.
Practice head(s):
Alison Mills
Other key lawyers:
Mark Beardwood; Tom Kelsall
Key clients
Universities Superannuation Scheme Limited
PGIM Real Estate
Heineken UK Limited
Downing Developments
Elite Partners Capital
CBRE Global Investors
LaSalle Investment Management
Schroder Real Estate Managers
Maslow Capital
Nuveen
Elan Homes Limited
CBRE Limited as Receivers on behalf of Toys R Us Properties (UK) Limited (in LPA receivership)
John Lewis Partnership Pension Fund
Capital & Centric
Barings Real Estate Advisers
Orchard Street Investment Management/St James’s Place UK Plc
Greater Manchester Pension Fund
Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Beaufort Capital
Cheshire West and Chester Borough Council
Amstone Developments Limited
4th Industrial Limited
Envivo Group
Elite Logistics Fund
Elite Commercial REIT
Ares Management UK
Panattoni UK
Crosslane Student Developments
Rasmala Investment Bank
Work highlights
- Advising on the sale of a pan-European logistics and industrial portfolio with a total value of EUR520 million to Blackstone.
- Advised CBRE Limited, acting as the joint LPA Receivers of Toys R Us Properties (UK) Limited, on the sale of the former Toys R Us 700,000 sq ft distribution centre in Coventry for GBP60 million to a joint venture between Bericote Properties and JP Morgan.
- Advised Universities Superannuation Scheme Limited (USS) on the acquisiton and forward funding with Invesco for GBP143 million of 40 Eastbourne Terrace, Paddington to develop a 369-bedroom Premier Inn hotel and restaurant next to Paddington Station in London.
DWF
The team at DWF regularly advise multinational household names as well as central government clients on a broad range of real estate matters. Paul Inman has particular expertise in the hospitality sector, handling site acquisitions and developments for clients within the industry. Naveen Gupta co-heads the team with Inman, acting largely for leisure operators and institutional clients with large property portfolios. Rachel Lawler heads up the occupier sector group, and Catherine Haslam leads on telecoms sector deals.
Practice head(s):
Paul Inman; Rachel Lawler; Naveen Gupta
Other key lawyers:
Catherine Haslam
Testimonials
‘Extremely knowledgeable and up-to-date on key changes that would effect the business but at the same time a good personal relationship is built.’
‘Rachel Lawler continually goes the extra mile to ensure transactions are concluded in a timely manner and always seeks the most favorable terms where possible. Advice provided is always accurate, to the point and provided quickly to ensure the correct decisions are made to protect the business.’
‘The lawyers are keen to assist us in advising what it is we need to deliver the matter in what are sometimes short delivery deadlines. The advice given is concise and they work hard to understand what we need.’
‘They take time to get to know you and understand our business. The advice is always tailored to what we need and not just quoting the legal position.’
‘Naveen Gupta – personable, Naveen really knows his stuff.’
Key clients
Costa Coffee
BT
adidas
Homebase
Whitbread
Shell
Speedy Hire
EE (BT)
Missguided
Tapi Carpets & Floors
BAI Communications Ltd
Mobile Broadband Network Limited (MBNL)
Wincanton
Royal Borough of Greenwich
Work highlights
- Advised Adidas on the UK property aspects of the £1.8 billion sale of the Reebok business to US company Authentic Brands Group, significant transactions with McArthur Glen, and the acquisition of new retail space at Kildaire Outlet Village.
- Advised Costa Coffee in the delivery of all targets over the last 12 months particularly in relation to the restructuring of key assets and acquiring drive-thru stores.
- Negotiated template property agreements with a number of district network operators, and thereafter rolling them out in volume through Shell’s network in order to achieve Shell’s target growth for EV charging in its retail portfolio.
Pinsent Masons LLP
The team at Pinsent Masons LLP has built a comprehensive practice with expertise and 'depth across all sectors' - particular strengths include industrial and logistics properties, residential matters, and national infrastructure deals. Jonathan Brocklehurst leads the team with extensive expertise in investment and development matters as well as the leisure sector. Ann-Marie Salmacis, who is praised for being a 'first class real estate lawyer', leads the firm's fast-growing international and cross-market logistics practice. Legal director Matthew Rowlands handles complex infrasturcture deals, and minerals aggregates and waste projects.
Practice head(s):
Jonathan Brocklehurst
Other key lawyers:
Ann-Marie Salmacis; Matthew Rowlands; Helen Smart
Testimonials
‘Good strength in depth across all sectors.’
‘Ann-Marie Salmacis is a first class real estate lawyer with a real desire to provide a quality service to her clients.’
‘The team provide comprehensive property advice which is tailored to the needs and nature of our business. Their strength is not only in the knowledge of the law but the way to apply it in a pragmatic and business effective way.’
‘Matthew Rowlands has a depth of knowledge and experience that is reassuring when dealing with matters of significance for the business. Matters are handled extremely well with efficiency and expediency. He is the driving force behind the team. Helen Smart has been instrumental in ensuring the purchase process is completed with minimal issues and quick responses when questions arise.’
Key clients
St Modwen Properties Plc
Harworth Estates
Bricks Capital
Balfour Beatty
Tritax Symmetry
Hines
Homes England
Whitbread (Premier Inn)
United Utilities
North Star
BoKlok
HIMOR Group
Merseyside Pension Fund
The Ability Group
Europa Capital
Wilson Bowden (Barratt Group)
Grantside
Blazehill Capital
HBD (Henry Boot)
Work highlights
- Advised Tritax Symmetry on a complex site assembly for a 1m sq ft landmark logistics facility at Huyton.
- Advised Bricks Capital on the £80m development of a 859 bed purpose-built student accommodation scheme in Salford and the sale of Phase 1 of the scheme following practical completion.
- Advising Balfour Beatty Vinci JV on the delivery of HS2’s £100bn+ project to design and construct high speed railways between London and Manchester.
Shoosmiths LLP
Noted for its strengths in high-profile development and living sector work, Shoosmiths LLP‘s commercial property practice is led by experienced development lawyer Andrew Pattinson. Together, James Brodie and Pattinson lead the living sector team, regularly advising student accommodation providers and housebuilders in the region. Daniel Monaghan handles major investment deals including funding agreements and asset management. Lisa On-Iam, who is particularly focused on large-scale regeneration projects, continues to play a leading role in the practice. Emma Tonge joined from Addleshaw Goddard.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Pattinson
Other key lawyers:
Lisa On-Iam; Daniel Monaghan; James Brodie; Vaqas Farooq; Paul Gidman; Vanessa Rickard; Christina Suddes
Testimonials
‘The team is responsive and always willing to take your call if urgent advice is needed. They’re able to understand the bigger picture, allowing them to focus on the key issues at hand.’
‘Dan Monaghan is a strong and proactive lawyer. He knows how to take a transaction from beginning to completion in the required deadline.’
‘Shoosmiths provide practical legal advice but are also in tune with commercial matters so that their sound legal advice marries well with commercial realities.’
‘Christina Suddes is an accomplished legal director. Always available to provide timely and commercially prudent legal advice. Paul Gidman’s legal knowledge is impeccable. The team always go above and beyond to service their clients.’
‘Vanessa Rickard values the trust of a client and is not afraid to highlight risk, but always with a solution or approach to mitigation thereof. Deals with all instructions promptly and effectively, with a calm and measured demeanour. Vanessa is not afraid to hold out in negotiations for matters in the Trust’s best interests even if that makes her unpopular with others on the opposite side of the transaction. Vanessa is highly respected by our property team.’
‘The knowledge in the sector is second to none and the commitment to knowledge sharing throughout the team is exceptional.’
‘Very personable and a willingness to help. They are not afraid of arming in house teams with knowledge and skills so that they can carry out business as usual work in-house.’
‘Friendly, personable, hard working, and understanding of clients. Lisa On-Iam and Vaq are great people and look after us.’
Key clients
Allied London
Redrow PLC
Canal and River Trust
Bellway Homes
Property Alliance Group Limited/Alliance Real Estate LLP/ARE II LLP
Euro Garages Limited
Nikal Limited
Renaker Build
Wirral Growth Company
Peel Group
Lend Lease Residential
Muse Developments
Marston’s plc
Select Property Group
Countryside Properties Plc
Footasylum Limited
Derwent Holdings
Svenska Handelsbanken AB
Urban Splash
PDI (Holdings) Limited
Bluemantle
The Gym Group Limited
Synergie Holdings Limited
Aspire Gym
Humberside Airport
Virgin Wine Online
Likewize
Workshop
Estee Lauder Cosmetics Limited
PlaceFirst
Royal Borough of Kingston
Bolton Council
Stockport Council
Staying Cool
St Modwen Properties plc
Patrick Properties
Keepmoat Homes Limited
Anwyl Land Limited/Anwyl Construction Company Limited
Gladman Developments Limited
Austringer Limited
Greenbank Partnerships Limited
Sportsdirect.com Retail Limited
Walgreen Boots Aliance
Monte Blackburn Limited
Vistry Partnerships
Taylor Grange Developments Limited
Renaker Homes
Landmark Investments
Total Developments Limited
Ralph Lauren UK Limited
The Restaurant Group plc
Sigma Property Capital Limited
Chantler Trading Limited
Stretton Wakefield Limited
Lancashire County Council
Morbaine Limited
Edgefold Homes
PLP (formerly Peel Logistics)
Harworth Group
Ainscough Strategic Land
Sourced Regent Plaza Limited
Mount Property Group Limited
Your Housing Group
Star Academies
Cheshire East Council
Nicoventures Retail (UK) Limited (part of British American Tobacco)
Hillcrest Homes
Galliford Try Plc
The Beam Trust (A multi-school acadamy trust)
Brydell Partners
Access to Music Limited
Milligan Limited
Quartzelec
Stretton Denman Limited
Perfection Point Enterprises Limited
Place Capital Limited
Progress Housing Group
LDS Sales Guarantees Limited
Bury Metropolitan Borough Council
Prestbury Estates Limited
Canterbury City Council
London Borough of Hounslow
Wain Homes
Glass Futures
Work highlights
- Advised Marston’s plc on the acquisition of 156 pubs from Wales biggest hospitality company, Brains, after the pandemic threatened their closure saving over 1,300 jobs from being lost.
- Acting for Wirral Growth Company on the £1bn development and regeneration of Birkenhead Town Centre and surrounding areas.
- Acting for Nikal on the first phase of the £300m Blackpool Central leisure development which will bring about transformational change to Blackpool.
Brabners LLP
With one of the largest real estate teams in the region, Brabners LLP boasts a broad practice which advises a range of clients from local authorities to national lenders. Sector lead Andrew Waugh continues to uphold his strong reputation in the development market, whilst Krista Powell provides strategic advice on complex development sites. Roy Barry leads on key deals within the manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain sector with particular expertise in major regenertion projects.
Practice head(s):
Richard Roberts; Iain Gamble; Andrew Waugh
Other key lawyers:
Roy Barry; Krista Powell; Helen Burns; Tom Wright; Paul Nicholls; Abdul Salam
Testimonials
‘The team are always quick to respond, explain everything well and are always incredibly helpful. They make everything a lot easier and smooth and I know I can rely on them and trust them to not only do a good job, but deliver when needed. The team are truly a credit to Brabners.’
‘Attention to detail. Client facing. Commercially minded. Balanced and considered advice.’
‘Krista Powell has always shown an exemplary understanding of the requirements of our businesses’ goals and drivers. Breaking down complex and challenging legal matters in such a way that has allowed the business to navigate its way through some complex legal structures and in the process finding manageable and negotiable routes forward.’
‘Brabners are one of those practices which are still refreshingly client, rather than process focussed. You can always get hold of the lawyer who is acting on your behalf, up to and including partnership level. I used to use half a dozen lawyers but I’ve gradually whittled this down to a couple and in the North, it is Brabners. Concise, no nonsense advice, fair fees and an emphasis on the ‘personal touch’ sets them apart from the rest. I never have to chase them and I’ve never come out of the other end of a deal with them thinking that they could have done more.’
‘They are all consummate professionals and give concise, commercial advice. The most appealing element of what they do however is the ‘style’ with which they do it. They all have a great sense of humour and when negotiating on your behalf, they employ a genuinely collaborative approach to get the deal done. They know when to take instructions and when to give advice – they’ve saved us significant amounts of money by giving well timed strategic advice.’
‘I like the integrated approach Brabners are able to offer from: site purchase, through the funding process with the bank and through the construction contracts, so one house can do the lot. This leads to obvious efficiencies.’
Key clients
Manchester Airport/The Airport City Limited Partnership
Cole Waterhouse
Real Estate Investment Partnerships
QB Technology
McColl’s Retail Group plc
Well Pharmacy
Generation Limited
Pumps and Gearboxes
Adam Scott
Coutts & Co
Artmax
Nikal
Hillcrest Homes
CorpAcq Group
The Atlanta Group
Manchester & Sale Rugby Club (Sale Sharks)
J W Lees & Co (Brewers) Limited
Harrison Hunt
Jumani Holdings
CYBG
Arbuthnot Latham & Co
Begbies Traynor
NatWest
Doncaster Sheffield Airport Limited
Sefton Borough Council
Oldham Borough Council
Sunway Residence (Guernsey) Limited
OakNorth Bank PLC
Cityheart Developments
The Charity Bank
Close Brothers
Lancaster City Council
Sofology (Part of the DFS Group)
Simply Design
XLR8 (Part of JD Sports)
National Football Museum
The Mobility Group
Zen Jungle Estates Limited
The Dixon Group
Countyroute
Pendle Business Park Limited
GTM Europe Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Lancaster City Council on the disposal of land to form the Eden North Project.
- Advising the Airport City Limited Partnership on the implementation of the new office campus project for the Hut Group at the Airport City / Manchester Airport scheme.
- Advise Sefton Borough Council on all real estate matters relating to the Strand Shopping Centre.
Browne Jacobson LLP
The commercial property team at Browne Jacobson LLP 'work smoothly across sectors', including government, health, and education. The practice is co-headed by Dominic Buckley - he advises developers on a full range of real estate matters, and regularly assists on high-profile multi party transactions in the region. Co-head Victoria Thourgood leads the firm's national health and social care real estate practice; she provides a specialist service to clients, and often leads on key projects both regionally and nationwide.
Practice head(s):
Dominic Buckley; Victoria Thourgood
Other key lawyers:
Michael Parkinson
Testimonials
‘Good value for money and transparent about costs associated with procedures. Always have worked with a good, knowledgeable team that can overcome most legal issues.’
‘Dominic Buckley – Excellent communication throughout projects and ability to perform when under pressure.’
‘Very helpful.’
‘The team work smoothly across sectors and I receive a joined up, efficient service as a result.’
‘Dominic Buckley and Michael Parkinson are knowledgeable and experienced. They are easy to contact and give clear and consistent advice and a speedy efficient service.’
‘Found the approach to understanding a clients needs and then identifying the key team members who were best served to deliver the right advise was very straightforward.’
‘Dominic Buckley has been excellent in deciphering the needs we have to achieve the overall objectives – brought in key team members when necessary and co-ordinated everything to provide seamless and clear advice.’
Key clients
Primas Property Group
Investar
Orchard Dean Developments
Homes England
Stockport MBC
Jayne Commercial
Birtenshaw
Department for Work and Pensions
Albumedix Limited
YHA (England and Wales)
Care Fertility Group
Prime Plc
East Midlands Ambulance Service
Wrightington Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Primary Health Properties Plc
Derbyshire Community Health Service NHS Foundation Trust
Towerview Care Ltd
Avery Healthcare Group
Clydesdale Yorkshire Banking Group
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Work highlights
- Working alongside Prime Plc’s inhouse legal team on the development of a Multi-Storey Car Park and a cancer centre at Royal Surrey County Hospital.
- Advising Stockport Council since 2020 in relation to leisure services that were hit badly by Covid.
- Advised Xanadu on the acquisition from Blackrock of a high value property let to British Aerospace; negotiations took place against the backdrop of an existing tri partite arrangement between Blackrock, BAE and the neighbouring landowner Bellway Homes.
DAC Beachcroft LLP
The real estate team at DAC Beachcroft LLP stands out for its high-profile asset management work, regularly advising both private and public sector retail property owners. Practice head Alison Key specialises in the retail and leisure sectors, whilst Sally Morris-Smith leads the commercial development sector team. Dan Kendall brings considerable residential development expertise to the practice, as well as experience advising on complex city centre regeneration schemes.
Practice head(s):
Alison Key
Other key lawyers:
Sally Morris-Smith; Dan Kendall
Key clients
Property Alliance Group
Lendlease
Quintain
Fradley Park Industrial Limited ( Evans Property Group )
Pets at Home
Ilke Developments
Burnley Council
University of Chester
Unibail Rodamco Westfield
Rock Co Limited
Work highlights
Davitt Jones Bould
Davitt Jones Bould's real estate team - which is praised for 'clarity, compliance, work quality and transparent billing' - notably advises government clients such as National Highways, as well as focusing on major national landmarks and environmental issues. Founding partner Madeleine Davitt leads the practice, known for her management of large central government commercial property projects. Experienced consultant Tony Fitzmaurice regularly handles high-profile development deals, and Abigail Kay specialises in retail estates management. Richard Holmes is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Peter Allinson; Madeleine Davitt
Other key lawyers:
Tony Fitzmaurice; Abigail Kay; Richard Holmes
Testimonials
‘Experienced solicitors who provide quality, commercial legal advice.’
‘Davitt Jones Bould has an outstanding reputation in property matters, based upon attracting and retaining very experienced lawyers specialising in this field who service an enviable client base.’
‘Really impressed with Abigail Kay’s service on one of my clients.’
‘They have a very clever business model of employing solicitors who don’t want to be based in an office, and often don’t work five days a week, and that means that they have great solicitors giving advice rather than the pyramid structure of many of the large firms.’
‘They are experts in their field.’
‘DJB are a well run firm and it is apparent in your dealings with them. Clarity of instruction, compliance, work quality and transparent billing are all excellent.’
‘Tony Fitzmaurice is a very experienced and sharp commercial property solicitor. He has demonstrated this to us over many years.’
Key clients
National Highways (formerly Highways England)
Environment Agency
Natural England
Woking Borough Council
Grainger Plc
Westmorland Plc
Exeter Science Park
Skanska
Fisher German LLP
Health and Safety Executive
Met Office
St Helens Borough Council
Office for National Statistics
Work highlights
- Advised National Highways on hundreds of acquisitions relating to the development of major road schemes throughout the UK.
- Advised a national retailer with over 700 properties nationwide on numerous new leases at sites across the country.
- Advised Woking Borough Council on the regeneration of the Sheerwater area.
Gateley Plc
The real estate and residential development team at Gateley Plc acts for a range of clients including national housebuilders, major banks and lending institutions, and retail companies. Darren Hughes and Louise Ilhan co-head the practice and together have significant expertise in acquisitions and disposals of investment properties. Specialist residential development lawyer Leanne Murray possesses in-depth knowledge of both the Welsh and English planning markets, and acts as lead adviser on several large strategic projects for the North West.
Practice head(s):
Darren Hughes; Louise Ilhan
Other key lawyers:
Leanne Murray
Key clients
Fairhome Group Plc
Bellway Homes Limited
Bloor Homes Limited
Taylor Wimpey UK Limited
Lidl Great Britain Limited
JD Sports Fashion Plc
Network Space Developments Limited
McCarthy and Stone Retirement Lifestyles Limited
Barratt (Manchester) Limited
Hurstwood Holdings Limited
Harworth Estates Limited (North West)
LPC Living Limited and Group
Cityblock Limited
Rothschild & Co Wealth Management (UK) Limited
HSBC UK Bank plc
Miller Homes Ltd
Hollins Homes Ltd
Countryside Properties Plc
Persimmon Homes
Story Homes Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for Bellway Homes Limited on the acquisition of land for the purpose of residential development comprising the construction of 257 dwellings on the former Burton’s Biscuits factory, on the Wirral with the site value being in excess of £10,000,000.
- Acting for Keepmoat Homes Limited on the acquisition of a serviced site for residential development of circa 130 dwellings at the Northern Gateway, Deeside, on land at the former Corus steel works site.
- Acting for Network Space Developments in connection to the Glass Futures development project involving agreement for lease with St Helens Borough Council and Glass Futures Limited; grant funding agreement with Liverpool City Region Combined Authority; forward funding agreement with Aberdeen Standard Life; and building contract with Bowmer & Kirkland.
Hill Dickinson LLP
Praised for being ‘very commercial and accessible’, the team at Hill Dickinson LLP are particularly skilled in advising investors, occupiers, and public sector bodies on all aspects of real estate law. Practice head Darren Hamer specialises in the business parks market, whilst former national sector lead Jim Purves regularly handles major logistics deals. The team was recently boosted by the arrival of experienced partner Peter Winnard, formerly of CMS and before that Nabarro. Robin Sharp has left for JMW Solicitors LLP.
Practice head(s):
Darren Hamer; Alex McCann
Other key lawyers:
Jim Purves; Peter Winnard; Chris Johnston; Jon Pearson-Basudev
Testimonials
‘Experienced property lawyers who are collaborative and responsive.’
‘Jim Purves – his level of engagement and attention to detail is excellent.’
‘The real estate team are unrivaled in their approach, efficiency and can do attitude. True professionals in their field and an absolute pleasure to deal with. All work undertaken at a very reasonable fee.’
‘Chris Johnston – the best solicitor I have had the pleasure to work with, bar none. A “solutioniser”, highly efficient and keen to resolve / finalise matters as quickly as possible, which is what I want as a client. Providing options to resolve matters is always greatly appreciated. A real asset to the firm’
‘Jon Pearson-Basudev is the best up and coming senior associate, a real talent and will become a great partner in due course’
‘Very commercial and accessible. Always keen to help solve issues and make clients lives easier.’
‘The personal service. The professionalism of the team. The fact that they understand our business and that the relationship between the Commercial Property practice and my organisation goes back some considerable time and, as such, they are well aware of our needs. They have provided us with an excellent service for many years.’
Key clients
Biz-Parks
Co-operative Group
Cynergy Bank
DHL
EP Properties
Genus plc
Gordon Moon Properties
Lloyds Banking Group
Lookers Motor Group
M20 Property Group
Oddfellows Friendly Society
Peel Group
Selbourne Group
Sheffield Mutual Friendly Society
UPS
Williams Lea Tag
Work highlights
- Advised logistics giant DHL on several new-build warehouses, including two separate units at East Midlands Gateway.
- Advised Sheffield Mutual Friendly Society Limited in relation to a trio of newly-developed retail investments at Spalding, Wolverhampton and Castleford.
- Advised Biz-Parks Ltd on the disposal of a substantial site comprising a redundant pottery works in Stoke for redevelopment.
JMW Solicitors LLP
With a client portfolio spanning a wide range of sectors, including investors and developers, the team at JMW Solicitors LLP offers a full real estate service. Thomas Pearson leads the practice with specialisms in healthcare and residential development in the region. Paul Burton continues to play a key role in infrastructure deals, notably advising national infrastructure platform CityFibre. The team was further strengthened by investment and development specialist David Frankland joining from DWF in early 2022, and Robin Sharp joining from Hill Dickinson LLP.
Practice head(s):
Thomas Pearson
Other key lawyers:
Paul Burton; Andrew Stone; David Frankland; Majid Mahmood
Testimonials
‘Andrew Stone is our point of contact for property related matters; the complex commercial or governance arrangements of some of our landlords combined with the specialist needs of our business often requires more nuance than a conventional commercial lease and he navigates the complexities well.’
‘My experience with Andrew Stone has been that his advice is always based on best practice and then tempered with pragmatism. Andrew’s principal strength is demonstrated when things get complicated. He has proven his ability to manage the complexity and delays caused by counter-parties with complex internal governance arrangements of their own and to do so in a way that ensures our interests are protected whilst they sort out their own internal issues.’
‘I am pleased to be able to recommend JMW without reservation in respect to not just giving advice but proactively driving to a successful conclusion numerous highly complex land and development agreement transactions. They encourage collaboration not just across their varied real estate, tax and corporate teams but facilitate partnerships between clients to help grow their respective businesses.’
‘The type of transaction that our business specialises in requires time and critical co-ordination between land owners and operators, whilst bearing in mind differing priorities. Thomas Pearson has succeeded in this respect on our behalf in numerous transactions and his proactive approach is highlighted by his flexible approach in terms of looking for solutions to problems, availability and being willing to pick up a telephone to other solicitors to accelerate the process rather than relying on correspondence as many do!’
‘Robin Sharp is one of the most accessible lawyers I have ever had the pleasure of working with. His attention to detail in unrivaled. We receive regular updates and matters are progressed very efficiently.’
Key clients
HSPG
Northhold Group
Blueoak Estates
Grafton Land & Property
Blue Square Residential Ltd
Blackacre (Great Blakenham) Limited
CityFibre
Barnados
Hollins Strategic Land and associated companies
Investar Developments Limited
Grafton Land & Property Limited
The Brookhouse Group of Companies
LWC Drinks Limited
Fortlands Group
Millennium Care UK
Quorum Group
Work highlights
- Advised HSPG on their deal with Fiera Infrastructure to support the delivery of a brand new UK social infrastructure platform, Domus Social Housing: delivering circa 50 properties, providing accommodation to approximately 1,000 residents.
- Advised CityFibre on its nationwide rollout of its full fibre UK Gigabit Broadband Network to reach up to eight million premises.
- Advised Blackacre (Great Blakenham) Limited and landlord on its pre-let and onward sale for £38 million of a 296,000 logistics warehouse at Port One, Freeport.
Kuit Steinart Levy LLP
Kuit Steinart Levy LLP‘s ‘consistently excellent‘ commercial property practice is headed by development specialist Nick Nyunt who regularly advises on complex acquisitions and disposals. Managing partner Steve Eccleston handles property holding structures and debt structuring matters, while David Moroney leads the investment sector team. Tim Arkwright predominantly deals with housebuilders and developers, and the addition of Sally Knight from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP has further bolstered the team’s client base. Adam Hymes is head of property development.
Practice head(s):
Nick Nyunt
Other key lawyers:
Chris Hardy; Steve Eccleston; David Moroney; Sally Knight; Tim Arkwright; Emma Nimmo; Adam Hymes
Testimonials
‘We have used Kuits for many years and have found them to be consistently excellent. Accessible, responsive and highly commercial, the team is focused on understanding our commercial drivers and delivering our transactions on time every time. We cannot recommend them highly enough.’
‘Chris Hardy is highly motivated to deliver an excellent service. Strong technical ability but also very commercial and solutions driven and an excellent communicator.’
‘Nick Nyunt is one of the most knowledgeable commercial property lawyers I have ever come across. A tremendous eye for detail and a prodigious work ethic. There is scarcely an issue that arises that he hasn’t seen before.’
Steve Eccleston is a fantastic problem solver. His background in real estate finance gives him an excellent perspective and his ability to cut through the noise and find the way to unlock a problem is peerless.’
‘Kuits are a very hands on practice. The team we work with are innovative, hands on and easy to get hold of. No problem can’t be solved!’
‘This practice is unique as they are efficient, they respond immediately, they are very thorough.’
‘Nick Nyunt and Emma Nimmo have never failed to provide a first class service on all my dealings with them. They are very personable and have expertise knowledge in their field. They take time to explain.’
Key clients
University of Salford
Beech Holdings
David Samuel Properties
Property Alliance Group
Trafford Housing Trust
Persimmon plc
PIN Property
Heaton Group
Salboy Limited
Stewart Milne Homes
Work highlights
- Advised Trafford Housing Trust on flagship deal to lease all 128 units in a residential tower currently being developed at Victoria Riverside, Red Bank, Manchester.
- Advised Prime Property on the development and sale of the Wire 81 industrial unit at Ash Road North, Wrexham Industrial Estate, extending to circa 81,550 sq ft.
- Advised Heaton Group on acquisition of a development site at Seymour Grove, Old Trafford known as Trafford Plaza. The site will be developed by the client for a residential housing block, with plans to have 174 new build apartments in the 12-16 storey structure.
Mills & Reeve LLP
With 'a massive depth of skills across the practice', Mills & Reeve LLP's Manchester real estate team is led by 'tremendously experienced' property lawyer Mike Edge
, whilst the wider national practice is headed by Richard Hanson
in Norwich. Rachel Pitman regularly advises local authorities on numerous development schemes; Jennifer Lewis specialises in public sector real estate with a focus on health and education, and Hannah Cheminais works with occupiers and private investors in the region.
Practice head(s):
Richard Hanson; Mike Edge
Other key lawyers:
Rachel Pitman; Caroline Hanratty; Jennifer Lewis; Hannah Cheminais
Testimonials
‘A massive depth of skills across the practice. Huge reservoir of knowledge.’
‘Caroline Hanratty and Rachel Pitman stand out in the commercial property department. The readily available knowledge and their ability to speak from a position of having experienced the issues before is invaluable.’
‘Very responsive with a good turn around in dealing effectively and commercially with instructions.’
‘Mike Edge and Rachel Pitman are tremendously experienced, well connected within the market and very client focused.’
‘Readily available and formed a good business relationship. Understand where we need to get to and very solution focused.’
‘The team work well as a unit and coordinate advice across various areas of specialism.’
‘The team are very professional, personable, approachable and pragmatic. They have the right specialists in the right place to deal with projects and transactions of a unique, large and complex nature.’
‘Mike Edge leads the team exceptionally well and has a great team beneath him. Everyone we have dealt with at Mills & Reeve has the skills and expertise to do the job we appoint them to do and they do it in a highly personable and approachable manner and communication and the pace of work is excellent.’
Key clients
Langtree Property Partners Limited
University of Salford
Stockport MBC
Bruntwood SciTech Melbourn Limited
Salford City Council
Church Commissioners
Homes England
Tritax Symmetry Properties Limited
Land Trust
Urban & Civic plc
Work highlights
- Acted for Bruntwood SciTech Melbourn Limited in its acquisition of Melbourn Science Park, marking Bruntwood’s entrance into the Golden Triangle.
- Advising Salford University on its collaboration with Barratt Homes to develop a lived in experimental zero carbon home on campus.
- Dealing with the infrastructure agreement between the client, Robertson Group, (as developer), the pension fund (landowner), Lancashire County Council and Preston City Council for the delivery of large infrastructure scheme, the Preston West Distributor Road, to unlock a scheme which will deliver more than 1,000 new homes in Bartle, Preston.
Squire Patton Boggs
The real estate team at Squire Patton Boggs have a 'wealth of experience' in advising clients across a range of sectors including retail, regeneration, and renewables. Development expert Mark Barker leads the team, largely focusing on complex and strategic regeneration projects. Nick Helm regularly acts on renewable energy and transport schemes and Mark Gaffney has expertise in property joint ventures and public sector funding. Jonathan Brooke is also a key name in the development market.
Practice head(s):
Mark Barker
Other key lawyers:
Mark Gaffney; Nick Helm; Jonathan Brooke; Richard Nichols
Testimonials
‘Mark Barker has provided clear, concise and pragmatic advice acting for us on a difficult negotiation of a forward funding agreement, where the funder was represented by a large international firm. His knowledge of the market and of the particular idiosyncracies of this funder have been invaluable in the negotiation.’
‘The team provide clients with sound practical advice and support. There is a wealth of experience and consistency throughout the department and in my experience I have found them to be extremely responsive and proactive.’
‘Mark Barker leads a very capable and well organised team, He is very personable by nature and provides clear and practical advice. Mark is extremely knowledgeable and is thoroughly pragmatic in his approach to, and management of complex real estate transactions.’
‘Richard Nichols offers excellent advice and sound guidance. He is an excellent communicator and adopts a realistic approach. He always goes that extra mile for his clients and has consistently demonstrated his ability to innovate to resolve complex issues.’
‘Mark Gaffney’s attention to our needs and ability to turn things around quickly and accurately is something we have not experienced elsewhere.’
‘Strategic insight and a desire to know and understand our business.’
‘Mark Barker has a deep understanding of the residential for rent markets and offers great commercial insight. He also takes the time to understand the requirements of our business.’
Key clients
Watkin Jones Group
Co-op Group
Muse Developments
HB Villages
Warrington Borough Council
Preston City Council
Manchester City Council
Leeds City Council
Transport for Greater Manchester
AIG Global Real Estate
Bespoke Hotels Limited
Panacea Developments
Stewart Milne Group
Taylor Wimpey
NPL Group
Create Developments
Galliford Try Investments
Fresh Property Group
Findel plc
Vital Energi
Warburtons
Dolphin (Costain Pension Fund)
Equitix
InfraRed Capital Partners
Amber Infrastructure
Dandara
Sheffield City Council
Work highlights
- Advising TfGM (and indirectly 10 Greater Manchester local authorities) on the proposed Greater Manchester Clean Air Plan and the Greater Manchester Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Project.
- Acting for Watkin Jones on the £35.5m forward funding sale of a purpose build student accommodation scheme in Leicester.
- Advising Preston City Council on the key strategic redevelopment of the City’s indoor market for a leisure-led scheme anchored by a multi-screen cinema operator and a bowling operator.
TLT
The 'very pragmatic and commercial' lawyers on TLT's real estate team are known for their advice to principal financial institutions, national retailers, and leisure clients. Real estate finance expert Andy Bell leads the practice, assisting numerous international banks, while Patrick Sheehan handles secured lending and property recovery matters. Despite Daniel Sweeney's departure to Addleshaw Goddard, retail and leisure specialist Philip Moran continues to uphold the team's reputation in the sector.
Practice head(s):
Andy Bell
Other key lawyers:
Philip Moran; Patrick Sheehan
Testimonials
‘Very pragmatic and commercial lawyers. Very strong on keeping us up to date, always answer calls and emails in a timely fashion. Very friendly, and great to work with.’
‘Several deals needed to draw in a short timeframe. They brought in additional lawyers to ensure the deadline wasn’t missed, and did it all with a smile, despite having to go above and beyond in terms of their involvement and similarly putting in some long hours.’
Key clients
Manchester Airport Group
JD Sports Gyms Limited
Edinburgh Woollen Mill
Hickory’s Smokehouse
Tim Hortons
Yorkshire Building Society
Landmark Investments Group
Oldham Borough Council
Wasabi
Barburrito Group Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Merlin Entertainments on its partnership with Mondēlez International which involves it acquiring the business and assets of Cadbury World UK.
- Assisting boohoo with a new store concept with Debenhams Beauty which involved negotiating agreements for lease, eases and ancillary licences and documents.
Clyde & Co
Clyde & Co recently merged with BLM; acquiring a Manchester commercial property team known for its expertise in private commercial, residential and public sector development and regeneration. Stephen Lintott heads up the practice, and specialises in advising on acquisitions and disposals of land, including complex, development, and lease work. Tessa Leonard, another key member of the group, regularly leads teams in delivering town centre redevelopment and multi-phased regeneration projects.
Practice head(s):
Stephen Lintott
Other key lawyers:
Tessa Leonard
Testimonials
‘Good value for money; understand client needs well.’
‘Stephen Lintott is a highly competent partner.’
‘They have great attention to detail and deliver a service specific to our company’s requirements.’
‘The team leader, Stephen Lintott is the main reason we use the firm for our property deals. He has a great understanding of our company and his negotiation skills particularly with other solicitors smooths the way to conclude deals in a speedy and efficient manner.’
Key clients
Urban Splash and related entities
Bradley Edge LLP
Domis Blackfriars Limited
Redwater and associated companies
Evonik UK Holdings Limited
FICM Limited ; Salboy Central Limited ; FG Victoria Ltd
Property (Done)Limited
Naples Street Properties Limited
Castle Irwell Limited
QN Street Limited
Magnificent Developments Limited
BTS NQ Ltd
Dwell Developments/Dwell Properties
Cramant Homes Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Evonik on a portfolio of properties including complex multi-party transactions, some of which will lead to the regeneration and management of brownfield sites.
- Advising Salboy Limited and related entities, such as Viadux, Castle Irwell Limited and 55 Queen Street, on funding the developments and the delivery of a high volume of plot sale transactions.
- Advising Warton East Developments Limited on a multi-party site assembly and onward sale of a large residential development site to a mainstream housing development.
Fieldfisher
Fieldfisher's 'highly professional commercial real estate team' is led by development expert Liam Buckley who regularly advises national retailers, local government bodies, and industrial clients. Kirsty Tinsley-Fenney handles matters in the financial services sector, and leads on numerous complex regeneration schemes alongside Matthew Dobson - a development lawyer who specialises in real estate finance.
Practice head(s):
Liam Buckley
Other key lawyers:
Kirsty Tinsley-Fenney; Matthew Dobson; Martin Bloor
Testimonials
‘Kirsty Tinsley-Fenney – excellence, and always swift.’
‘A highly professional commercial real estate team offering extensive knowledge within the sector.’
‘A very approachable team who react with commercially driven advice.’
‘A very client focused property team that deliver consistently good service and sound commercial advice to achieve our business objectives.’
‘Martin Bloor is a solid property lawyer with practical solutions and a commercial approach to move transactions forward in a positive way; always dependable and helpful.’
Key clients
Allianz Real Estate
Aspen Bridging Limited
Aura Finance Limited
Avamore Capital Limited
Booking.com
Charles Topham Properties (CTP) Limited
Colliers International Limited
Co-operative Group Limited
Cynergy Bank
Deutsche Asset Management – DWS Alternatives GMbH
Dominvs Group
Getir UK Limited
Hagan Land Limited/Urban Waterside Limited
Industrials UK Property Unit Trust
Kennedy Wilson
Kimberly-Clark
Kingmoor Park Properties Limited
McGoff Group
Noviniti Limited/Noviniti group of companies
Pitalia Real Estate Limited
Richer Sounds Limited
Seddon Developments
Shell Group
Simon Carves Engineering Limited
Standard Chartered Bank
The Royal College of Physicians
Toorak Bridging clients
West One Loan Limited
Worthing Borough Council
Work highlights
- Advised Booking.com in securing new 230,000 sq. ft headquarters at Manchester Goods Yard at the notable Enterprise City.
- Advising on a lease acquisition for Royal College of Physicians’ impressive 70,000 sq. ft £1 billion flagship expansion site at The Spine, Paddington Village, Liverpool, bringing The Royal College of Physicians in as anchor tenant.
- Advising Pitalia Real Estate Limited on the acquisition of 3 industrial warehouse units spanning over 250,000 sq. ft of space at 380-acre Cheshire site, Winsford Industrial Estate, for a purchase price in excess of £8m.
Pannone Corporate LLP
The team at Pannone Corporate LLP is notable for undertaking complex transactions for clients in the retail and leisure, logistics, and real estate finance sectors. The practice is headed by James Wynne who advises on numerous national student accommodation schemes and real estate finance transactions for care home providers. Garry King regularly handles large leisure property purchases and acquisitions, while Gareth Birch deals with landowners and developers on residential and commercial developments.
Practice head(s):
James Wynne
Other key lawyers:
Garry King; Gareth Birch; Rosie Korcz
Testimonials
‘I find the team very helpful and personable. My needs are understood and worked upon in a timely, efficient and thorough manner. The firm appears to embrace technology and has many colleagues to call upon for differing requirements or business types.’
‘I work with Garry King, he is excellent. He has now taken over all property work in three of my businesses. Pannone seem to be able to advise on all aspects of my numerous business interests. They are all helpful and reasonable with my requests.’
‘I find the team to be of good value, charging a fair rate even though often going beyond their remit to assist me further. The team always reply promptly.’
‘Small enough to be client focused but large enough to provide multi discipline cover when required.’
‘Rosie Korcz – commercially aware and focused on “getting the deal done”. Good communication throughout the process.’
‘I worked with a number of different individuals in the team and found everyone to be very responsive and understanding of my business. The partner would ensure the team had been briefed about how I like to work – the good and the bad! this meant that they came prepared with good advice and alternative courses of action depending on what avenues were available to the business.’
‘Names to mention – James Wynne and Rosie Korcz. The team were tenacious when they needed to be with the other parties solicitors / representatives and calm when I needed a level head to think through a problem.’
Key clients
Bestway Retail Limited
Junkyard Golf Club Limited
Boohoo.com UK Limited
Manchester Central Convention Centre Complex Limited
Costcutter Supermarkets Group Limited
Total Fitness Health Clubs Limited
Ardagh Glass Limited (and other group companies)
Citychance Limited
Palmbest Limited
Hilti UK
Sing Hunter Capital
Maya Property Developments Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Boohoo Holdings Ltd on the acquisition of the entire shareholding of SML Great PTE Limited, and SPV holding the former Microsoft and Nokia head office building on Great Pulteney Street, London, W1.
- Advised Maya Property Developments Limited at each step of their canal side residential development in Altrincham from planning through to development finance, site set up and plot sales.
- Advised Citychance on the proposed lettings of their newly refurbished office suites on Macklin Street, London.
Trowers & Hamlins LLP
The team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP undertakes a range of real estate work including commercial acquisitions, large regeneration projects, and leisure facilities. Tonia Secker leads the national real estate practice from London, while major projects specialist Suzanne Benson heads up the Manchester team. Matthew Holbrook handles commercial property matters, and Amanda Stubbs has extensive expertise in environmental, health, and safety matters. Anna Metham is a key name on asset management matters.
Practice head(s):
Suzanne Benson; Tonia Secker
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Holbrook; Amanda Stubbs
Key clients
Medivet Group Limited
Step Places
Latimer Developments Limited/Clarion Housing Group
CERT Property
Swanton Care and Community Limited
Caretech Group
Chalegrove Properties Limited/City Pride
Federated Hermes Property Unit Trust
AnyNest Limited
Tatton Group
Homes England
St Helens Borough Council
Cringle Corporation
Wolverhampton City Council
Countryside PLC
Bury MBC
Warwick District Council
Ainscough Strategic Land Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Medivet Group Limited on their share and business acquisitions of individual veterinary practices.
- Acting for Federated Hermes Property Unit Trust on the asset management of their property portfolio; including numerous sales, purchases, leases lease renewals, consent applications and re-gears, as well as a number of complex letting scenarios involving back to back deals.
- Advising Great Places Housing Association on the acquisition of several schemes in the regeneration of Ancoats and New Islington areas of Manchester for development purposes, including schemes at Laystall Street, Downley Drive and the former Ancoats Dispensary.
Weightmans LLP
Weightmans LLP's real estate team has a broad range of expertise, notably handling numerous significant regional and national regeneration projects. Team co-head Andrea Steventon has a particular specialism in property development and also leads the national practice. Karl Jackson acts as national head of the firm's Built Environment group and is regularly instructed by local authorities on regeneration work.
Practice head(s):
Andrea Steventon; Karl Jackson
Other key lawyers:
Brian Ghatan
Testimonials
‘Great working with this team. Capable of handling a wide variety of property work, ranging from routine lettings to major acquisition and disposals, very often with strict deadlines. Timely, clear advice throughout.’
‘Quickly identify all the relevant issues and the likely structure of the transaction. Knowledgeable and easy to contact when required.’
Key clients
Barratt Homes
Oak Tyres UK Limited
MHA London
Bruntwood
Elan Homes
Eccleston Homes Ltd
Escape to Freight Island
Landmark
Nottinghamshire County Council
Thomas Jones & Sons (Liverpool) Limited
Transport for Greater Manchester
Milton Keynes Council
Samsonite Europe
Stockport Homes Limited
Midland Heart Limited
Sandway Homes Limited
KS Habro
BDW Trading Limited
Work highlights
- Advised MHA London on their purchase of the Debenhams building at the Moor in Sheffield from the M&G Property Portfolio. There were complications to the deal by virtue of Debenhams’ insolvency, previous CVA and its temporary arrangements in place with the seller.
- Acting on behalf of FTSE 100 housebuilder BDW Trading Limited in the acquisition of land acquired from Homes England at Cottam, Preston for 117 dwellings Complex Building Lease arrangement under Homes England’s Accelerated Development protocol with freehold drawdown arrangements for plot sales .
- Acting on behalf of Thomas Jones & Sons (Liverpool) Limited in connection with an exchange of conditional contracts for a site subject to planning, satisfactory services and suitable ground conditions.
Beyond Corporate Law
Commercial experts Beyond Corporate Law provide a boutique service to housebuilders, developers, and clients in the leisure sector. Construction specialist James Flynn heads up the practice and handles key development matters. Having recently joined from Slater Heelis, Hannah Al-Shaghana advises private and public sector clients on a variety of retail, industrial, and landlord and tenant matters. Owen McKenna is also a key member of the team, leading on high-profile acquisitions and disposals.
Practice head(s):
James Flynn
Other key lawyers:
Hannah Al-Shaghana; Owen McKenna
Testimonials
‘Passionate about quality in service provided, comprehensive understanding of the objectives of our business and exhibit desire to support our business in achieving our goals. Focused on ensuring they never under-deliver and have excelled in aiding us deliver complex and time pressured projects.’
‘Very strong team of partners and associates, delivering high quality advice consistently. Great continuity also, with a good breadth of knowledge and experience.’
‘Beyond Corporate is a modern law firm that works hard but efficiently to get our deals across the line. They can respond quickly in negotiations to resolve any issues while always standing their ground. They are an excellent team with good all-around attention to detail and a pragmatic, commercial approach.’
‘Beyond Corporate have a unique ability to translate legal drafting into precise commercial terms, giving clients the platform for clear decision making.’
‘They have an extensive understanding of terms under a variety of agreements which are typically acceptable to contractors, and institutional lenders / funders. This insight significantly reduces the negotiation period.’
‘Beyond Corporate have the capability to cut through sticking points to ensure agreements arrive at an agreed form in an efficient manner. They have an instinct for the right form of communication at the right time, and have the commercial understanding for all stakeholders which allows them to propose and agree the compromises required to get things done.’
‘We have been working with the firm for over 2 years now and we have always found all the team to be very knowledgeable, highly competent and very approachable at all times and on all types of matters.’
‘Practical and friendly application of good professional knowledge.’
Key clients
Gino D’Acamp Hotels & Leisure Ltd
Isterco Associates Limited
Castlefield Estates Limited
Property Alliance Group
Motel One (UK) Limited
New Care
James Hall and Company Limited (Spar supermarkets)
Supreme PLC
Hurstwood Holdings Limited
Pringle Executive Homes Limited
Errigal Developments Limited/Owen McLaughlin
McGoff Group
Mulbury Homes
Capital & Centric
Investar Property Group
Work highlights
- Acting for Motel One (German hotel operator) on a new £100m mixed use hotel and office development in Old Street, Hackney.
- Acting for Property Alliance Group on the £70m development of 3 St Peter’s Square, Manchester into a 600 room hotel to be occupied by two different hotel operators.
- Acting for Gino D’Acampo Hotels & Leisure Ltd in connection with all of their leasehold acquisitions of restaurants within the various Melia Hotels across the country.
Glaisyers Solicitors LLP
Glaisyers Solicitors LLP commercial property team is praised for having a 'broad and wide-ranging experience base', advising both private and public sector clients with a focus on real estate finance. The practice is led by property lending specialist David Marlor and development expert Ross Wellman. Eric Quirk further strengthens the team with expertise in the logistics and leisure sectors.
Practice head(s):
David Marlor; Ross Wellman
Other key lawyers:
Eric Quirk
Testimonials
‘The team were excellent and removed all the hassle out of what was a large multi transactional piece of work.’
‘Great team – all very helpful and constructive.’
‘Dave Marlor gives me a top quality and reliable service along with a smile – also I don’t feel they’re watching every penny in terms of time spent.’
‘The team have a broad and wide-ranging experience base with regard to property matters.’
‘Communication is a core strength – keeping us as a client up to date constantly and taking through decision making processes with logic and common sense.’
‘Glaisyers commercial property are very good to deal with, they are approachable, they are all very knowledgeable about their roles within the team and they have obviously been trained very well.’
‘Ross Wellman heads up the commercial property team and is a very good, knowledgeable, practical and efficient lawyer, has all the necessary skills to run a fully helpful and approachable commercial property team. Ross is very experienced and very practical in this approaches to service providers and clients alike.’
‘Eric Quirk is very thorough. On numerous occasions I have used his services the other party have commented on his very detailed work and some were so impressed that they said that they would be using his services in the future. I have found Eric to be very knowledgeable in his field and found him to go the extra nine yards to ensure everything is done properly.’
Work highlights
- Advised a client on the complex bridging and refinance of a large portfolio of properties raising over £7m.
- Advised a client on the sale of five business centres and other property for £9.5m.
- Advised a client on the sale of an office building, was sold subject to 35+ leases for £2.25m.
Irwin Mitchell
Following Roy Beckett 's retirement, leadership of Irwin Mitchell's real estate team was taken over by renewables specialist Stelios Coutsavlis. The practice continues to handle real estate development and investment transaction work, while expanding into renewable energy and healthcare sectors.
Practice head(s):
Stelios Coutsavlis
Key clients
Athena Healthcare Group
Bruntwood Estates
CorEnergy
Gazprom Retail
The General Medical Council
PageGroup
Tactus Group
Tatton Group
The Trafford College Group
Bentley
Work highlights
- Advised Athena Healthcare Group on the acquisition of a site at Congleton. Involved checking the title and ensuring it is fit for development and dealing with the site contraints sufficient to ensure that it is satisfactory for development.
- Advised Athena Healthcare Group on the refinancing of a site at Lytham for care home development with RM Funds and working constructively with the lender to ensure that the site is satisfactory for development.
- Acted for the landowner Pointon and JCM Holdings (UK) Limited on the option for the grant of leases of a solar farm conditional upon planning.
Primas
Commercial property specialists Primas are 'making their mark in Manchester' with extensive knowledge in real estate development, investment, and regeneration. Practice head Simon Baxter regularly acts for clients on large-scale residential housing schemes, and has particular expertise in planning agreements. Yasar Kaushal handles acquisitions and disposals as well as property finance matters, and David Vayro leads the Built Environment projects team.
Practice head(s):
Simon Baxter
Other key lawyers:
Yasar Kaushal: David Vayro
Testimonials
‘Simon Baxter – his knowledge of the area is commendable. He assists us with any small or large problem and is always happy to have a call/meeting to discuss any matters or problems.‘
‘The people at Primas are knowledgeable, professional and approachable.‘
‘Primas are building a strong team of decent lawyers, who specialise in commercial real estate. They are making their mark in Manchester.’
‘Yasar Kaushal – he is one of the best commercial property lawyers that I have come across. He goes above and beyond for clients and ensures that they are fully aware of all of their obligations whether buying or selling real estate. Yasar is transparent and competitive with his pricing.’
‘The team of skilled professionals at Primas make negotiating the legal system a much smoother experience. They are always on hand to deal with matters in a professional and timely manner and are extremely proactive in negotiations. Their commercial and property knowledge is exemplary and they always look for a workable solution to any issues that arise. They approach all our projects with professionalism, flexibility and a can-do attitude.’
‘Very specialist experts and responsive whilst offering good value for money.‘
‘The team at Primas continue to prove themselves as market leaders in property development, especially in land transactions. They are strong in their ability to move transactions forward quickly, guiding mixed tenure and complex schemes to completion while giving great assurance of risks to investors.‘
‘Simon Baxter and his team are highly valued partners to our organisation and operate in an approachable, friendly, supportive manner with great cognisance of the issues that matter most to their clients. They are excellent representatives of their clients especially in complicated projects in dialogue with third parties.’
Key clients
CNC Robotics Limited
Bismillah Limited
Torus62 Limited
Westshield Limited
V10 Limited
Stanley Investments
ESH Construction Limited
Elite Residential Developments
Stretton Capital Limited
Cityside UK Limited
SEP Construction Services Limited
Hoober Urban Partnerships
DAM Group UK Limited
P.Casey (Developments) Limited
Bentley Motors
Ash Waste Services
Mammoth Capital
Gemini Finance Ltd
Norlife (QEH) Limited/ Guildhouse UK Limited
Hall & Co Developments Limited
P&D Northern Asset Management Limited
Liquid Funding Business Limited
Mulbury Homes Limited
Marco Living
SEDA Pharmaceutical Developments Limited
Vauxhall Industrial Estate (Stockport) Limited (Oxford Park Limited SPV)
Wilkins Property Holdings Limited
Collaborate Living Limited
Work highlights
- Devised and led the legal project to secure the acquisition and delivery of a £10m high specification residential development and new library facility.
- Acting on securing a £20m much needed extra care scheme for a Housing Association in partnership with a private developer.
- Creating the legal framework to preserve the sporting legacy of Liverpool Football Club’s iconic training ground and many new affordable homes for TORUS62 Housing Association.