Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow in Scotland
Aberdein Considine
Aberdein Considine is noted for its strong coverage across Scotland. Paul Jennings heads up the team, which is noted for its landlord and tenant work, as well as residential, office, leisure, retail and mixed-use development expertise.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Trump International
Ashfield District Council
Greggs plc
Westerwood Developments
Marquis of Bute
Steak Limited
Deans Civil Engineering Limited
Rox Jewellers
Sweeney Kincaid
Rentokil Initial plc
Work highlights
- Advised Trump International Golf Club Scotland Limited on proposed 550 unit village development with additional leisure, commercial and retail premises.
- Advised Ashfield District Council on the acquisition of the Hercules Portfolio.
- Advised Greggs plc on a conditional lease contract for its new flagship store at 50 Argyle Street, Glasgow.
Addleshaw Goddard
Addleshaw Goddard handles real estate matters for large corporates, UK financial institutions, and domestic and overseas-based private funds. It is particularly focused on the transport, telecoms, student accommodation and private rented sectors. Alternative asset classes (such as healthcare and caravan parks) are another area of strength. Team head Miles Ede is increasingly gaining prominence in transactions of national significance. Alison Newton is experienced in office redevelopments, mixed-use developments, office and hotel leasing, and regeneration projects. Neil Hogg joined as a partner from Pinsent Masons LLP. Mark Fitzgerald has retired.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Alison Newton; Neil Addis; Alastair Cowan; Kirsty Nicholson; Carrie Armstrong
Testimonials
‘The team have taken the time to understand our business and identify key risks in a transaction and provide suitable commercial solutions.’
‘Always proactive in providing advice and moving a transaction forward to completion.’
‘Neil Addis is an expert in the sector with excellent market knowledge.’
Key clients
BauMont Real Estate Capital
KanAm Grund
Aviva Investors
Asda Stores Limited
British Telecommunications plc
Legal and General
SSE plc
Staycity Limited
Deka Immobilien
Ediston Real Estate
Work highlights
- Acting for KanAm as asset and fund manager (on behalf of a German pension fund) in relation to a new- build multi-let/mixed-use asset at 4/8 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh.
- Advised SSE plc on the property aspects of its £500m sale of SSE Energy Services to OVO Energy Limited.
- Advised British Telecommunications plc on the sale and short-term leaseback of BT’s HQ building at St Paul’s in London and the acquisition of a new leasehold HQ building in Aldgate to be known as One Braham, being an 18 storey new build development of which BT will be sole occupier.
Anderson Strathern
The real estate team at Anderson Strathern is noted for its strength in commercial and residential matters, including those involving the build-to-rent sector, investment, development, retail and housebuilding. The team generates mandates from blue-chip clients, local businesses and public sector bodies. Anne McGregor, who leads the practice, has over 25 years of experience handling commercial property deals. Euan Mellor joined from Brodies LLP.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘In depth but pragmatic advice.’
‘Anne McGregor consistently provided great advice showing depth of understanding and knowledge but always with an eye on the deal and maintaining a level of pragmatism that is often needed to get the deal done.’
‘Breadth and depth of specialist people is impressive. Proactive not reactive.’
Key clients
Buccleuch
Bruce Walker and others
CCG (Scotland) Limited
Iceland Foods Limited
Walker Holdings (Scotland) Limited
Scottish Midland Co-operative Society Limited
Intu Properties plc
J Smart & Co (Contractors) plc
Fife Council
Quercus Healthcare Property Partnership
Blake Property Company LLP part of Blake Engineering Group, leading steel and metal fabrication experts in the UK
BMO UK Property Fund ICVC
Buccluech Property
Crown Estate Scotland
Goldentree Financial Services plc
The Hutcheson Family
Places for People
Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc
James Walker (Leith) Ltd
Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company
Ineos Chemicals Grangemouth Ltd
CALA Management Limited
Moyallen Properties Limited
S1 Developments Limited
Teague Homes (UK) Limited
Halo Kilmarnock Limited
Urban Union Limited
Apex Hotels Limited
City of Glasgow College
The Scottish Government
Scottish Water
Vento Ludens Limited
Alexander Dennis Limited
CMS Hasche Sigle Partnerschaft von Rechtsanwälten und Steuer
Edinburgh Airport (Edinburgh Airport Limited)
Northwind 5S Limited
Silvermills Limited (Locogen)
Aedifica
NextEnergy
Shetland Islands Council
Work highlights
- Advising on management and development of Intu Braehead, Soar at intu Braehead and intu Braehead Retail Park.
- Advising Halo Kilmarnock Limited on the purchase, funding and construction of a £63m urban regeneration project.
- Acting for S1 Developments Limited on the development of 338 build to rent units.
Bellwether Green
Bellwether Green acts for high-profile landlords and property developers, and counts Virgin Media and Liberty Global as notable clients. It often receives referrals from London firms to act on the Scottish aspects of property deals. Glasgow-based John Bingham leads the team.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Bellwether Green provide a partner-led approach that is very personal to the client’.
‘You always know you will be speaking with an experienced solicitor who will be able to offer on the spot advice and are willing to take a commercial approach’.
‘John Bingham is highly personable, straightforward and pragmatic’.
‘They will pick up the phone first rather than write a lengthy email and their no-nonsense approach also means the client feels like they are getting value for money’.
‘Under John Bingham’s calm and authoritative leadership, the real estate team at Bellwether Green naturally connect with their clients and understand their needs’.
‘John Bingham is inspiringly calm and considered making him a first choice trusted advisor and a go-to sounding board to help ensure that risks are ironed out before they create a business impact’.
‘Excellent interpretation of the law and its practical application’.
‘Good negotiators combined with a commercial approach’.
Work highlights
- Advised Catalina General Insurance Limited on funding for £27m acquisition of a portfolio purchase of eight industrial estates across Scotland.
- Advised a Virgin Media on a broad range of matters, including the negotiation of an infrastructure agreement with The City of Edinburgh Council in respect of Phase 2 of the Edinburgh tram network.
- Advised Brookhouse Group on borrowings in respect of a large multi-let retail park with asset value of circa £50m.
Brodies LLP
Brodies LLP continues to perform well in emerging sectors of the commercial property industry and has been involved in many recently announced build-to-rent projects. The firm has dedicated practitioners focusing on the investment, development, hotels, retail and leisure, and housebuilding sectors. On the leisure and hospitality side, the team is active in finance, real estate, private equity investment, hotel management agreements, construction, financing and licensing matters. In the retail arena, the practice acts for blue- chip clients on corporate and real estate transactions. Johane Murray is the overall head of the real estate practice. Colin Morrison heads up the hotels and leisure & retail groups. Managing partner Nick Scott continues to provide strategic advice to key clients. James Roscoe is recommended for investment matters, forward funding and development deals, and property finance. Elaine Farquharson-Black joined from Burness Paull LLP, while Graeme Leith was promoted to partner. In other developments, Robert Forman departed for Burges Salmon LLP and Kevin McGlone moved to DWF.
Practice head(s):
Johane Murray (Real estate); Colin Morrison (Hospitality, leisure and retail)
Other key lawyers:
Nick Scott; James Roscoe; Elaine Petterson; Laurence Douglas; Richard Whyte; Richard Smith; Chris McDaid; Tanya MacLeod
Testimonials
‘They have depth at all levels and are extremely responsive to our needs’.
‘Johane Murray, our client relationship partner, is exceptional’.
‘Johane is in our opinion the leading practitioner in Scotland’.
‘Excellent practical and legal knowledge’.
‘Good relationships with counterparts make for a smooth transaction process’.
‘Johane Murray is very hands-on and hard-working’.
‘The team always respond immediately with great expertise and support’.
‘Colin Morrison is an outstanding individual with all-round skills, having built a superb support team around him’.
Key clients
Drum Property Group
Ediston Real Estate
Knight Property Group
Orion Capital Partners
PGIM
Ashby Capital
Moorfield
Aberdeen City Council
Greenridge Investment Management
AEW
CALA
Accor Hotels/Fairmont
Starwood Capital/Yotel
AJ Capital/Graduate Hotels
Everyman Cinema
Marathon Capital/Bryant Hospitality
Casual Dining Group
Marston’s
Great Century Investors/London & Oriental
The Restaurant Group
The Ivy Restaurant Group
Zara
Sportsdirect.com
New Look
Pandora
Pret a Manger
B&Q
Pull & Bear/Bershka/Stradivarius
Matalan
B&M
Clarks
Work highlights
- Advised Drum Property Group on an £85m deal to acquire a development site at Buchanan Wharf, Glasgow and contract with L&G for the subsequent disposal for construction of a new Build to Rent scheme.
- Acted for Bryant Hospitality (owned by Marathon Capital) on the disposal of a portfolio of Crowne Plaza and Hilton hotels to DTP Infinities Corporation.
- Acting for Sportsdirect.com on the expansion and ongoing management of the Sportsdirect Scottish portfolio.
BTO Solicitors LLP
The real estate team at BTO Solicitors LLP has broad expertise, which includes commercial development, retail, investment, estates diversification, estate management, housebuilding and property finance. Practice head Jane Steel has recently been involved in large investment acquisitions and disposals for substantial private investment companies. Nicolas McBride heads up the leisure and hospitality side of the practice and is renowned for his licensing expertise. Alan Borthwick retired.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Scott Buchan; Graeme Kelly; Peter Graham; Karen Brodie; Nicolas McBride; David Gibson
Key clients
Adil Group plc
Calmont Group
R J Holdings (New Zealand)
Kamani Group
A.S. Homes (Scotland) Limited
Isle of Arran Distillers Limited
Mactaggart & Mickel Group
TUI Group
Wirefox Management/Wirefox Investment Group
Standard Real Estate Ltd
Taco Time Limited
Radley
OCO West End Ltd trading as Starbucks
Burton & Speke Limited trading as Starbucks
Mungo Park Limited trading as Starbucks
Sood Enterprises Limited
Cashino Gaming Limited
Benihana
Rubadub Limited
Sneakerser Ltd
Mohair Ltd
Rhythm Base Limited (T/A Drummers Only)
Allure Medical Aesthetics Ltd
Energie Fitness franchisees
Shearings Hotels / Bay Hotels / Coast & Country Hotels
GBK Restaurants Limited
Crieff Hydro Limited
Viva Brazil Limited
Lane 7 Limited
Kimble’s Chocolates Limited
Jewel Trustees (Hotel Company)
Calmont Developments Limited
AK Investments (Scotland) Ltd
Treffiano Ltd
Isle of Arran Distillers Limited
Work highlights
- Advising leading NZ based property investors R. J. Holdings on the circa £6m purchase of The Beacon, 176 St. Vincent Street, Glasgow and expanding its Glasgow based portfolio towards £30m.
- Advised Briar Homes Limited on acquisition, development and plot sales on all Scottish sites – circa £70m developed value.
- Advised prominent A. S. Homes (Scotland) Limited, a Glasgow based and family-owned housebuilder, on site acquisition programme to the value of £60m across all sites, and on onward sales to registered social landlords.
Burges Salmon LLP
Since the arrival of new practice head Robert Forman from Brodies LLP in 2019, Burges Salmon LLP’s Scottish real estate offering has continued to go from strength to strength. The firm is uniquely well-placed to provide in-depth cross-border expertise with many Scottish-qualified lawyers being based in its offices south of the border. The team leverages mandates from investors, institutional funds, household-name retailers and major landowners, including The Crown Estate. It also handles property matters in the hotels and leisure, energy, renewables, transport and rural sectors.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Starwood Capital Group
BSW Timber
Priory RE
Puma Property Finance Limited
David Lloyd Leisure Limited
Larch Life
Tilhill Forestry Limited
The Crown Estate
St Modwen Properties
Lloyds Banking Group
Work highlights
- Acting for major US-based investor, Starwood Capital Group, on the intra-group lease of two new Yotels – the 280 room Yotel Edinburgh, at Erskine House of Queen Street, and the 256 room Yotel Glasgow opposite Glasgow Central Station.
- Advising Priory RE, an investment vehicle for a group of Dutch HNWIs, on the £15m acquisition of 180 St Vincent Street, Glasgow.
- Acting for BSW Timber, the UK’s largest integrated forestry business, on its acquisition of Maelor Forest Nurseries Ltd.
Burness Paull LLP
The real estate team at Burness Paull LLP is well regarded for its high-profile development and regeneration work. The team acts for a wide range of investor clients on cross-border transactions and handles corporate occupier matters for blue-chip corporate clients. It continues to advise on large-scale developments in the build-to-rent sector, and also handles real estate finance in the private residential, social housing and student accommodation sectors. Team head John Strachan is supported by Graeme Bradshaw, who leads on the retail and leisure and hospitality side. Nick Naddell focuses on high end investment deals, funding packages, and landlord and tenant work for large global retailers. Richard Rennie, who acts for high-profile investor clients, and Tamar Tammes are also recommended. Neil Bruce made partner.
Practice head(s):
John Strachan (Property); Graeme Bradshaw (Retail, leisure and hospitality)
Other key lawyers:
Richard Rennie; Tamar Tammes; Nick Naddell; Mark Patterson; Scott Peterkin; Peter Chambers; Neil Bruce
Testimonials
‘Burness Paull are incredibly responsive, delivering a really good quality of work product in a fast turnaround time’.
‘Their lawyers are clever and provide succinct commercially focused advice’.
‘Burness have strength and depth in the retail property area’.
‘Commercially focussed and adaptable to changing situations’.
‘Very good lines of communication throughout contact and excellent grasp of subject area’.
‘Burness Paull is always very prompt to respond and the quality of work is always high and delivered on time’.
‘The approach of Burness Paull has very much been a collaborative one with my position as in-house solicitor’.
‘A quick personal service and competent to provide a property service in a very personal manner’.
Key clients
Union Real Estate Investments GMBH
The UNITE Group plc
Glasgow City Council
HGIT Glasgow (Hines Subsidiary)
KKR/ Quadrant Estates
LSPIM
Verdant Leisure
Aedifica S.A
Barratt Homes West
CALA Homes
Longmore House Properties Limited
Hamilton House Investments Limited
Springfield Properties Plc
Wilkies
Nordic Outdoor
Louis Vuitton
Urban Outfitters
LK Bennett
Sharp Bedrooms
Poundstretcher
Papa John’s
Ladbrokes Coral
Dobbies
Homebargains
Neal’s Yard Remedies
Max Mara
Warren James
Jigsaw
Smiggle UK
M&Co
Jessops
London & Scottish
Aberdeen Football Club
Dobbies
KFC
Lothbury Trust Holdings
Pizza Express
Pizza Hut
Tony Macaroni
Union Real Estate Investments GMBH
Glasgow City Council
Verdant Leisure
Carefree Universal Corp
Hamilton House Investments Limited
Yum! Brands, Inc
Signature Pubs
Work highlights
- Acted for German fund Union Real Estate Investment GMBH on the acquisition of the historic grade-A listed Custom House on Glasgow’s riverfront.
- Continuing to act for Aberdeen Football Club on its new training facility and stadium at Kingsford, Aberdeen.
- Acting for Unite Group on its highly-publicised acquisition of Liberty Living comprising 53 properties across the UK with 7 in Scotland, comprising a total of over 24,000 beds nationwide.
CMS
The CMS real estate team handles matters involving a broad range of sectors, including energy, public sector, student accommodation, build-to-rent, office, hotel, and leisure and hospitality. Managing director Allan Wernham, who heads up the group, is noted for his retail development and investment expertise and focuses on major regeneration projects. Iain Doran is recommended for real estate development deals, property tax and dispute resolution (including arbitration) matters. Stuart Tait handles real estate investment, development and funding transactions for blue-chip clients. Of counsel Roland Smyth leads the hotel and leisure team. Associate Teresa Bradshaw-Wong is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Expert, responsive and commercial.’
Key clients
Nuveen Real Assets
SSE
ASI
NewRiver REIT plc (“NRR”)
The Lister Property Partnership
KW UK Assets Holdco Ltd
Standard Life Assurance Limited (per Aberdeen Standard Investments)
Franklin Templeton Investments
Credit Suisse / Commerzbank
UBS
Accor
citizenM
Fattal Hotels/Jurys Inn
Gleneagles Hotel
Nuveen Real Assets
Aberdeen Standard Investments
Oaktree Capital
M&G Investments
DTGO Prosperous
Hawksmoor
Barclays Bank
Pearkal Property Investments Limited
NewRiver REIT plc – Hawthorn Leisure
Kennedy Wilson
Sircle Collection (formerly known as Europe Hotels Private Collection)
The Entourage Group
Deliveroo
Stack and Still
Bross Bagels
Cup/Gin 71
Social Bite
Matthew Hunter Fitness
Work highlights
- Provided ongoing legal advice to Nuveen Real Assets on all property development, planning, CPO, competition/state aid, construction and related issues in relation to the Edinburgh St James shopping centre.
- Advising SSE on the real estate aspects of the sale of a 49.9% stake in its Stronelairg and Dunmaglass wind farms to Greencoat UK Wind plc in partnership with a major UK pension fund whose investment is managed by Greencoat Capital.
- Advised Aberdeen Standard Investments on the sale of 4-8 St Andrews Square, Edinburgh to German Pension Fund AVWL managed by KanAm Grund Group for circa £120m.
Davidson Chalmers Stewart
On 1st May 2019, Davidson Chalmers merged with Glasgow corporate boutique Kergan Stewart to form Davidson Chalmers Stewart. The real estate team is well regarded for its experience in the investment, housebuilding, healthcare and veterinary sectors. It is regularly instructed by English and international law firms to handle Scottish matters. Team head Andrew Chalmers is experienced in acting for large developers and family office investment funds.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The practice is truly partner-led and they are incredibly practical and proactive’.
‘They are very efficient and provide clear advice at competitive rates’.
‘The team has been consistent and supportive throughout’.
‘I’ve worked with Andrew Chalmers for many years on Scottish property transactions and he is my “go-to” lawyer for all transactions for several years’.
‘Andrew is always very responsive and pragmatic’.
‘My clients have been impressed with Andrew Chalmers efficiency and the clarity he provides as many of my clients are not familiar with the Scottish legal system’.
‘Efficient, practical and professional’.
Key clients
Chris Stewart Group
Peveril Securities Limited
Crosslane Group
Muir Group
Suez Group
Peel Group
Highbridge Properties plc
Ministry of Justice
Pizza Hut
Burger King
Edinburgh Castle Limited
Stonehealth Alpha
Scottish Historic Buildings Trust
Yours Clothing
Stone Acre
Work highlights
- Advised Chris Stewart Group on development, letting and sale of completed asset at Mint Building, Edinburgh for in excess of £50m.
- Advised Palm Capital on re-gear and sale of Centrica Building, Granton, Edinburgh at circa £25m.
- Advised new client Motability Operations Limited on complex new lease of flagship premises at South Gyle Business Park, Edinburgh.
Dentons
Dentons is well-placed to advise clients on national and international real estate deals; its work in Scotland is often written under English law. In addition, the firm has a number of Scotland-based dual-qualified fee earners. The Scottish practice is noted for its experience of the shopping centre, retail, energy, and leisure and hospitality spaces. Glasgow-based partner Gordon Aitken, who is a co-head of the team, has over 30 years of real estate experience. He is notably adept at handling institutional investment and funding. Another co-head is Simon Etchells, who is particularly experienced in cross-border deals. Allan Cairns, who is based in Edinburgh, handles investment acquisitions and disposals, leasing and development work, secured lending and the property aspects of corporate transactions.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent service from the partner down to the junior lawyers who work on the account. They always come up with deliverable solutions for any problems we have.’
‘Very commercial and respond quickly and solve problems.’
‘They are very dedicated to providing a very high quality service for us as a valued client.’
‘The Dentons real estate team are a pleasure to work with. They are commercial, practical and provide very prompt advice.’
Key clients
M & G Real Estate
Aviva Investors
Hammerson Plc
Doosan Babcock Limited
Aberdeen Standard
Peel Retail Developments Limited
The Light Cinemas Limited
The Student Hotel
Inmark Asset Management Co. Limited
Malin Marine Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Hyundai Asset Management on a multijurisdictional deal in the acquisition and financing of a large Edinburgh office building.
- Acted for an international investor client of M&G Real Estate in their acquisition of the landmark and prime office asset, Exchange Plaza, 50 Lothian Road.
- Advised Doosan Babcock Limited on the negotiation and conclusion of five new leases.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper is known for its domestic and international experience acting for developers, property funds, corporate occupiers, student accommodation and retail clients. It also acts for leisure and hospitality clients, including investors, operators and developers of hotels. Drew Wallace, who leads the real estate team, has over 30 years of experience in investment and development. Steve Edgecombe leads the hospitality and leisure team, focusing on transactional issues. Sheila Irvine is recommended for leasing, investment and development work.
Practice head(s):
Drew Wallace (Real estate); Steve Edgecombe (Hospitality and leisure)
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Sheila Irvine is easy to build a relationship with and have open and frank conversations. She has an air of calm and professionalism as well as solid credentials and a human approach.’
Key clients
Admiral Taverns
Aggregate Industries UK plc– procurer and supplier of construction materials
Alba Group
Ambassador Theatre Group
Artisan Real Estate Investors Limited
Aviva
AXA
British Airways
Campus Living
Greencoat
Harrison Street Real Estate
Heineken UK Limited
Henry Boot Developments
Hines Global
LaSalle Investment Management
Ministry of Defence
Odeon Cinemas
Osborne & Co/Vanguard Limited
Places for People
Proprium
RBS
Structured House Group
St Enoch Trustee Company (Blackstone and Sovereign)
St James’s Place
Timpsons
Work highlights
- Following the acquisition of over 1800 pubs from Punch Taverns we have continued to act throughout the UK on the Heineken property portfolio. including a number of required (by the Regulator) disposal programmes including the Project Tokyo UK wide sale to Admiral Taverns.
- Acted for Artisan St Enoch Quarter Limited on the acquisition, letting of two hotels and forward sale of the development at Custom/Spectrum House, Glasgow to Union Management.
- Advised Osborne & Co on a proposed 14 storey, 270.000 square foot office development for JP Morgan Chase.
DWF
DWF’s Scottish is noted for its strength in investment, development and finance work. The scope of its practice covers the retail, distribution, leisure and tourism, education and energy sectors. The team is jointly led by Chris McLeish, who acts for key investor and developer clients, and David Ratter, who acts for blue-chip corporate clients. Iain McHardy leads on the retail side with an impressive array of household-name clients. Kevin McGlone joined as partner from Brodies LLP.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Babcock Group
M7 / Mileway / Blackstone
McAleer & Rushe
Aberdeen City Council
Shell
Ambassador Group
Costa / Whitbread
Marks and Spencer p.l.c.
Hermes Parcelnet
Mowi (Marine Harvest)
Morrisons
JD Weatherspoon
McCarthy & Stone
David Samuel Properties
Apollo Real Estate Investments
Lake Merritt Group
Jet 2
C& C Group (Magners & Tennents)
Buxani Group
Arcadia
Next PLC
Marks & Spencer plc
Travis Perkins Plc
Debenhams
Halfords
Greggs
Gant
Costa
Holland & Barrett
Homebase
Fat Face
Dunelm Mill
Oasis Stores
Warehouse
Nando’s
The White Company
River Island
Swarovski
Work highlights
- Acting for Blackstone on the Scottish refinancing of the £483m Sunflower portfolio.
- Acting for WP Carey on the combined sale of eight industrial/trade-counter estates totalling over 400,000 sq.ft
- Acting for Marks and Spencer on all acquisitions, disposals, leases and asset management throughout its Scottish and Northern Irish real estate portfolios
Eversheds Sutherland
Eversheds Sutherland’s real estate practice is active in big-ticket real estate deals, with a focus on major institutional and inward investment mandates and development transactions. It has particular experience of leasing and portfolio management work, and has recently seen growth in its real estate finance practice. Edinburgh-based principal associates Steven Dick and Dixcee Fast jointly lead the team.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Gillespie Macandrew LLP
Gillespie Macandrew LLP has recently seen an uptick in work from lenders, including primary lenders, alternative lenders and foreign banks. Practice head Kenneth Irons, who is experienced in both commercial property and property finance matters, acts for multinationals, SMEs and family businesses. Harry Smith leads on the housebuilding side. The practice also provides support in related corporate, litigation and restructuring matters. Nikki Dundas joined from Clyde & Co LLP.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team are proactive and practical and importantly are always contactable’.
‘The service they provide is always of the highest quality and they have a tailored approach to clients’ needs’.
‘They resource instructions appropriately and as a consequence their fee basis is always competitive’.
‘Professional, personable, knowledgeable and confident’.
‘An approachable team who provide straightforward advice, with a good appreciation of the commercial realities of the market’.
‘Kenneth Irons is a commercially minded partner with an eye for seeking practical solutions to complex problems’.
‘Gregor Peebles is personable, quick to respond and deals with instructions promptly and professionally’.
‘Kenneth Irons provides an exceptional service’.
Key clients
West Ranga Group Limited
Assetz Capital
Binn Group Limited
Bellway Homes Limited
Westerleigh Group Limited
Majestic (Belford) Limited
Robertson Partnership Homes Limited
HR Consultancy (Scotland) Ltd
Syneos Health Inc
Brady PLC
Work highlights
- Advising West Ranga on the acquisition of 120 West Regent Street, Glasgow in a deal with £7m.
- Advising Channel 4 on the lease of its new Creative Hub in Glasgow.
- Advising National PLC Housebuilder on the acquisition of a significant development site comprising next phase of major residential development involving multiple developers in a deal worth £16m.
Gilson Gray
In 2019, Gilson Gray acquired Millar Campbell Solicitors, bolstering its licensing capability. The team works across all real estate sectors, including office, leisure, industrial, hotels, residential, healthcare, retail, rural and mixed-use developments. The group generates mandates from investors, occupiers, developers and corporates. Murray Stewart leads the team. Another key figure is John Fulton, who was promoted to partner.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Global
KPMG
SRA Ventures
BrewDog
GTC
Paint Traders
Gloria Jean’s Coffees
Caley Water
Work highlights
- Acting for Gloria Jean’s first franchisee on establishing a chain of US-based coffee shops in retail premises throughout Scotland.
- Appointed as Scottish legal advisers to GTC Infrastructure Limited.
- Sole legal advisers to SRA Ventures Ltd on the acquisition, disposal and management of a circa £25m portfolio.
Harper Macleod LLP
Harper Macleod LLP’s real estate team draws on the expertise of its planning, construction, banking and insolvency, energy, corporate and rural practices. Team head John Meehan is experienced in lease management, distressed property and property finance matters. David Bell specialises in commercial leasing, and in addition to Chris Noble, is a key practitioner for the firm’s retail, hospitality and leisure offering. Limor Wolfe handles insolvency, property finance and development. The team was recently bolstered by the arrivals of Caroline Summers, who was hired from Miller Samuel Hill Brown Solicitors, and Ian Davidson, who joined the Elgin office from Wink & Mackenzie. Ross Thomson has recently shifted his focus to commercial property work.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
David Bell; Chris Noble; Limor Wolfe; Caroline Summers; Ian Davidson; Ross Thomson
Testimonials
‘Great and efficient service, always available for consultation.’
‘Chris Noble is understanding and pragmatic to needs and requirements.’
Key clients
Halfords Autocentres Limited
Persimmon Homes Limited
James Keiller Group
MCR Property Group
Telecom Services Centres Limited
Tulloch Homes Group
Last Mile Infrastructure
Hazledene Group
James Keiller Group
Upland Property Group
Ardent Group
City Vale Developments
CBRE Global Investors
Aprirose Real Estate Investment
Upland Property Group
Camlin Group
James Keiller Group
Xafinity
Yorsipp
@Sipp
AJ Bell
Hagan Homes Limited
Loch Ness Homes Limited
New City Vision Group
William Hill
JD Sports
Halfords
Charles Tyewhitt
Caffé Nero
BP
NCP
Smyths Toys
Card Factory
Optical Express
Dulux Decorator Centres
Eden Springs
Gerry Weber
Jacobite Cruises Limited
Ashers Bakeries Limited
Pizza Punks
Compass Building & Construction
National Savings & Investments
Glasgow City Council
Strathclyde Passenger Executive
National Records of Scotland
Accountant in Bankruptcy
Scottish Natural Heritage
Work highlights
- Acted for Halfords Autocentres Limited (part of Halfords plc group) on the purchase of a competitor business with 63 properties throughout Scotland and England.
- Advised JD Sports on the lease of 28 Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, being the site of its new Glasgow Size store.
- Advised Caffe Nero on the lease of a new flagship store at St Vincent Plaza, Glasgow.
Lindsays
Lindsays' team is well regarded for its investment and property finance expertise, and is particularly experienced in the retail, healthcare, charity and corporate occupier sectors. The practice often receives instructions from London-based companies and law firms. Group head Derek Nash is known for his experience of investment transactions, development and corporate occupier work. Stuart Rowson left the firm.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Lindsays deal with matters efficiently and professionally’.
‘Lindsays are particularly impressive in that they take the time to find out what is important to their clients and understand their business fully which enables them to provide a very tailored service’.
‘Derek Nash is always professional, knowledgeable and supportive’.
‘Lindsays are responsive and committed and are able to sync into being part of a wider team well’.
‘They always adequately resource our work with them and we value their input’.
‘Derek Nash is a good team leader and organiser’.
‘Knowledgeable Edinburgh-based team providing a breadth of experience across all disciplines’.
‘Kenny Gray is always on-hand to contact and happy to take calls at any time; he is excellent at explaining everything and highly recommended.
Key clients
Waterstones Booksellers Limited
Telegraph Media Group Limited
Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
Grafton Group plc
The University of Edinburgh
Octopus Real Estate
Community Windpower Limited
Aldermore Bank plc
Sampension
Scottish Water
Work highlights
- Advised Bakkafrost on its acquisition of the entire share capital of The Scottish Salmon Company plc.
- Advised Sampension on the complete redevelopment of the eight-storey office premises at 10 George Street, Edinburgh and the pre-let to Aberdeen Standard Investment.
- Advised Waterstones on its new five-year lease of Unit B9 Silverburn Shopping Centre, Glasgow.
MacRoberts LLP
MacRoberts LLP is noted for its expertise in property development, investment, residential development and real estate finance which it provides to public and private sector clients. Practice head Gillian Campbell handles all aspects of commercial property work and counts charities such as the Scottish Government and National Trust for Scotland as key clients. Ian Bowie, who also leads the team, has particular experience of the quarrying and energy sectors. Kelsey Gibson, who leads on the retail side, is noted for her leasing work for landlords and tenants. Gordon Murray, John Macleod and Pippa Snell all joined as partner, as part of the firm’s acquisition of Murray Snell in March 2019.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Gordon Murray; John Macleod; Pippa Snell; Laurence Fraser; Douglas Lamb; Lisa Frost; John McQuillan; David McGuire
Testimonials
‘MacRoberts is my go-to firm for Scottish commercial property work. The work is always high standard and saves me an enormous amount of time because I know that I can rely on its quality.’
‘Ian Bowie particularly stands out, for his depth of knowledge and experience. He’s good to work with and very practical at dealing with unexpected complications.’
‘John McQuillan is another safe pair of hands who can be relied upon for solid but practical advice.’
Key clients
Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc
Scottish Power
BAM Properties Limited
Muse Developments Limited
CBRE Global Investors
Hamilton Capital Partners (HKIP)
Clydeside Regeneration Ltd
Chivas Brothers Limited
VPZ/CCHG
Work highlights
- Represented CALA Homes in the acquisition of a large site for development.
- Acted for Menzies in the cross-border sale and leaseback portfolio sale of 8 industrial properties to Custodian REIT.
- Acted for Wm Morrison Supermarkets PLC in relation to the long lease disposal of supermarket car park land at stores in Glasgow, Dundee and Stirling for the development of McDonald’s and Starbucks drive thru restaurants.
Morton Fraser
Morton Fraser is noted for its strength in student accommodation, public sector property matters, residential housing development, cross-border deals and investment issues. Team head Michael Ramsay handles investment and development matters and is the lead partner for key client Diageo. Elspeth Carson, who heads up the retail sub-group, is known for her strength in landlord and tenant issues, lease management, planning and construction. Alan Stewart joined as a partner from Dentons.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Amy Entwistle; David Stewart; Brian Macfarlane; Alan Stewart
Key clients
Robertson Homes
Stagecoach
Keepmoat
Tesco Stores
Diageo
Bloc Hotels
Patrizia
BAM Properties
Scottish and UK Ministers
Empiric Student Property
VisitScotland
Bloc Hotels
Diageo
Curo
Accor
SRUC
City of Edinburgh Council
Schuh
Riverside Capital
Squarestone
Work highlights
- Acting for Diageo in the development of its new multimillion pound Johnnie Walker global visitor attraction on Princes Street, Edinburgh.
- Acting for BAM Properties on the development and letting of an eight storey office scheme at Capital Square, Edinburgh.
- Acting for Aberdeen City Council, who are the planning authority for the multimillion pound proposed extension to the Bon Accord and St Nicholas Centres in Aberdeen.
Pinsent Masons LLP
Pinsent Masons LLP fields a large Scottish real estate team which draws on its global network of offices to deliver investment and development deals both locally and internationally. The practice leverages mandates from funders, investors, occupiers and private property companies. Energy is another area of focus for the group, which handles project development, implementation and financing. Team head Katharine Hardie focuses on commercial and residential developments. Russell Munro is noted for his experience of the acquisition, management and disposal of large portfolios of assets, retail parks and shopping centres. Paul Connolly is also recommended. Neil Hogg joined Addleshaw Goddard.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Paul Connolly; Ewan Alexander; Russell Munro; Jennifer Ballantyne; Martin Devine
Testimonials
‘Technically excellent lawyers, but they are also very commercial and pragmatic and work very well together and with us to get the deal done. They also have excellent market and sector knowledge.’
‘Paul Connolly is a technically excellent lawyer, but also very commercial and pragmatic.’
Key clients
Barclays Bank
HFD Group Limited
Legal & General UK Building to Rent Fund
CALA Management Limited
Legal & General
HECF Mint S.A.R.L
E.ON Energy Solutions Limited
Seagreen Wind Energy Limited
Orsted Hornsea Project 3 (UK) Limited
Diamond Transmission Partners RB Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Barclays Bank on the development of its new Tradeston campus in Glasgow, involving over 450,000 sq ft of new office accommodation for 7,500 employees,
- Advised HFD Group on the development and sale of £80m of Sir Ian Wood House in Aberdeen (Wood Group’s headquarters) to New York-based private investors.
- Advising Winchburgh Developments Limited on delivering the £1bn Winchburgh Village development in Scotland.
Shepherd and Wedderburn
Under the joint leadership of David Mitchell and Andrew Hall, Shepherd and Wedderburn's team demonstrates broad commercial real estate expertise, which includes office, retail and mixed-use projects. It also handles land acquisitions, regeneration projects, property finance and residential developments. Hugh Smith and Jamie Grant co-head the leisure and hospitality group, which acts for hotel operators, investors, financiers and managers. James Dobie is recommended for development work and land disposals. Scott Ritchie is experienced in leasing and asset management. Richard Turnbull joined as partner from TLT, while Judith Stephenson was promoted to partner.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Hall (Property); David Mitchell (Property); Jamie Grant (Leisure and hospitality); Hugh Smith (Leisure and hospitality)
Other key lawyers:
Nick Ryden; James Dobie; Scott Ritchie; Elaine Todd; Judith Stephenson; Richard Turnbull
Testimonials
‘Jamie Grant is the lynchpin that holds everything together, he anticipates problems and brings in the relevant expertise to solve them’.
‘Jamie Grant is dedicated, intelligent and thorough, with a laser focus’.
‘They feel more like an in-house team of my own company as opposed to an external consultant, that approach creates a very relaxed, but very effective way of working’.
‘David Mitchell is first-class and I have recommended him to many other contacts and colleagues’.
‘Shepherd and Wedderburn are major players in the development sector and provide a very wide range of advice which is based on in-depth experience and knowledge of the subject matter’.
‘Andrew Hall has very detailed knowledge of the subject and offers clear top quality advice’
‘Jamie Grant has a great eye for detail which can often identify issues quickly’.
‘Shepherd & Wedderburn have delivered a consistent and high quality full legal service’.
Key clients
British Land plc
Hermes
BlackRock
Tilstone/Warehouse REIT
CBREGI UK Property Fund
Miller Homes
Aberdeen Standard
Sainsbury’s/Argos
BAE Systems
Taylor Wimpey
Trump Turnberry
Dakota Hotels
Balmoral Hotel
Molo Hotel (formerly Polcom Developments)
Fraser Suites
Crerar Hotel Management
BDL Select Hotels Limited
Chardon Trading
Eurohostels
BDL Shetland Limited
HPMC Limited (owners Crowne Plaza London Docklands)
Work highlights
- Advising JP Morgan Chase on its plan to build a new technology base in Glasgow, at the 13 storey, 270,000 sq ft development at Argyle Street, Glasgow, in the heart of the city’s International Financial Services District.
- Advised M2 Dyce Limited on entering into an Agreement for Lease with NYSE-listed Oceaneering International Services Limited for delivery of a 100,000 sq ft warehouse at D2 Business Park, Aberdeen.
- Advised Safestay, the owner and operator of an international brand of contemporary hostels, on the acquisition of the freehold of its 15th hostel, currently operating as ‘Best Western Glasgow City Hotel’, for £3.15m.
Shoosmiths
Shoosmiths recently expanded its Scottish footprint with the opening of a Glasgow office. The real estate team was bolstered by the arrival of partners Barry McKeown and Fraser Mitchell from gunnercooke LLP and Shepherd and Wedderburn respectively. Another name to note is Sheelagh Cooley, who was promoted to partner. Stephen Dougherty, who leads the group, acts for retail clients and also handles development, investment and general landlord and tenant work. The practice also handles residential development, hospitality and leisure, property finance, social housing, student development, public sector and telecommunications work.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Robin Mitchell; Barry McKeown; Fraser Mitchell; Sheelagh Cooley
Testimonials
‘Barry McKeown is extremely well experienced, in depth knowledge of the market, and how he can always find a way through a deal.’
‘Shoosmiths stands apart from other practices as they constantly push and pull with land owners to drive the deal to a conclusion.’
Key clients
Tarmac
Cemex
Intelligent Land Solutions limited
Whiteburn Projects Limited
Ediston Land Limited
Travelodge
Wireless and Infrastructure Group
Rocco Forte
Civil Nuclear Constabulary
NATS Limited
Carriden Developments Limited
Balloch Farm Limited
Mactaggart and Mickel Homes
Bellway Scotland East Division
Perseus Land Limited
Marstons Developments
PfP Capital Fund
Clinton Cards
Fulcrum
Oddbins
Leonardo MW Limited
Straiton Park Limited
Euro Car Parks
Fitzwilliam
Coleby Investments Limited
Highland Properties Limited
Bellway Homes Scotland
Watkin Jones Group
Frontier Estates
Vita
Paladin Ventures Limited
North Berwick Golf Club
Dunbar Golf Club
Port of Leith Housing Association
CLSA
British Car Auctions
Hitachi Rail Europe Limited
Edinburgh Woollen Mill/Peacocks
Robertson Living Limited
Robertson Homes Limited
AAIM Bishopbriggs Unit Trust
Robertson Property Limited
Sigma Capital Group plc
Fortus Properties limited
ARP Properties limited
Johnstone House Properties Limited
Dyers House Properties Limited
HRP Properties Limited
Robertson Group Limited
Balfour Beatty Group Limited
Boots
Euro Garages
EWM/Peacocks
Screwfix
Estee Lauder
The Works
Ann Summers
Next
Topps Tiles
American Golf
Poundland
MKM Building Supplies
Hamleys
Cineworld
Guess
Russell & Bromley
Krispy Kreme
Kingdom of Sweets
Lush
Bob & Berts
Keepmoat Homes Limited
Arbuthnot Specialist Finance Limited
Urbanite (Glasgow) Limited
Forus Investments Limited
Sancus
Santander
Ultimate Bridging Finance
Abbey Properties Cambridgeshire Limited
Handelsbanken
Dunkeld House Hotel LLP
ETEL Group of companies
Work highlights
- Advising leading PRS developer Sigma as it rolls out its highly successful PRS platform to Scotland.
- Sole supplier of property legal services to Boots and Boots Opticians in Scotland.
- Acting for Edinburgh Woollen Mill’s investment arm in a number of prime location acquisitions.
TLT
TLT is noted for its strength in the investment, development, leisure, retail, property finance, hotel and clean energy sectors. The firm’s real estate offering operates on a cross-office basis across the UK. Glasgow-based partner Kenneth Meldrum is experienced in commercial property transactions, residential developments, business park site acquisitions and disposals, and commercial leasing. Richard Turnbull left the firm for Shepherd and Wedderburn.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Brian Armour; Howard Beach; Donna Strong; Andrew McCowan; Nick Shenken
Testimonials
‘TLT manage to combine a very personal touch with the reassurance of a larger firm. Very well organised and competent team who specialise but can also provide more general advice.’
Key clients
Q-Park
Town Centre Securities plc
William Pears Group
Frogmore
Market Halls
Reiss
Tapi Carpets & Floors
Beaverbrooks the Jewellers Ltd
Game Retail
Oxfam
Greene King plc
W H Smith
Q-Tel
Arc Cinemas
Yo! Sushi
Punch Taverns
Handelsbanken
TUI
Kingston Estates Limited
Tim Horton’s
Work highlights
- Advised Q-Park on the sale and leaseback of three car parks in Scotland (two of which as part of a UK-wide portfolio disposal).
- Advised Frankel Property Holding (5) Ltd and Frankel Property Holding (6) Ltd on the acquisition of a multi-let office building at 4 Atlantic Quay, Glasgow.
- Advised Greene King plc on all Scottish matters relating to a UK-wide securitisation and loan note issue by Greene King plc.
Weightmans LLP
Weightmans LLP’s Scottish real estate team works as part of the wider national group. It handles commercial real estate transactions in the office, retail, leisure and industrial sectors. Clients benefit from the group's expertise in investment transactions, development, finance and litigation. Cassandra Auld is the head of the practice.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Regent Capital
GreenOak
Caudwell Properties
Co-op
Certas Energy UK Ltd
Thorntons Ltd
M.G.F. (Trench Construction Systems) Ltd
Blythswood Property Management Ltd
Octopus Group
Santander
Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP
The Scotland real estate team at Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP works as part of the larger national group. It is active in the energy, residential development, finance, retail, office and build-to-rent sectors. Edinburgh-based Michael Spence, who is the head of the team, specialises in development work.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Renewable Energy Systems Limited
Ashfield Land (Glasgow) Limited
Edison Oakapple Limited
ESB Asset Development UK Limited
Statkraft Ireland Limited (formerly Element Power Ireland Limited)
Bridon International Limited
Airwave Solutions Limited
Lloyds Banking Group (Scottish panel)
Ministry of Justice (Scottish real estate)
Brent Infrastructure IBV
Post Office Limited (Scottish real estate)
Smartsheet UK Limited
Carpetright plc
Work highlights
- Acting for Renewable Energy Systems Limited on its continuing development of onshore wind farm opportunities in Scotland.
- Assisting Edison Oakapple Limited with the development of a portfolio of solar power facilities and disposal of the resulting project.
- Acting for Lloyds Bank Plc on the provision of refinancing facilities to a borrower.
Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP
Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP's client roster includes family businesses and SMEs. In addition, it also acts for large corporates and institutional clients, such as banks and investment funds. The firm acts on real estate matters connected with leisure, licensed trade, renewables, agriculture and rural real estates. Colin Brass leads the team.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Iain Dunn; Andrew McFarlane; John Smart; Michael Dewar; Joanne Ockrim
Key clients
Lotus Group
Dundas Heritable
Cairn Group
Rosemount Taverns
GAP Group Limited
J W Filshill Limited
Colhoun Family
Pagazzi Lighting Limited
Macfarlane Group PLC
JWR Holdings Limited
RGI Group
Work highlights
- Acting for The Prudential Assurance Company Limited on the sale of the former Homebase unit at Riverway Retail Park, Irvine.
- Advised Scottish wholesaler JW Filshill on the relocation of its operations to a new purpose-built 120,400 sq. ft. distribution centre at Westway Park near Glasgow Airport.
- Advising Speymalt Whisky Distributors Ltd (trading as Gordon & MacPhail) on all aspects of the acquisition of land and construction of a new distillery in the Cairngorm National Park.