Next Generation Partners

Firms To Watch: Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow

UK national firm Freeths recently launched a commercial property practice in Glasgow with a series of hires including two former Addleshaw Goddard  partners, Paul Ockrim and Nick Taylor.

Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow in Scotland

Brodies LLP

Brodies LLP is geared to support on the full spectrum of commercial property matters, due not least to the group’s wider expertise in planning, tax, environment, construction, and property litigation. Seasoned development and investment deal expert Johane Murray heads the practice, which has enjoyed a recent uptick in the build-to-rent (BTR) and life sciences fields. Managing partner Nick Scott is noted for his office, retail, leisure, student accommodation and industrial acumen. Clients seek Richard Whyte‘s investment knowhow, an area in which Allan Cairns is also an essential contact, particularly in respect of offshore acquisitions. James Roscoe‘s expertise extends to forward funding, property finance and corporate occupier matters, while Colin Morrison is a regular advisor to international investors, retailers, hotel and leisure operators.

Practice head(s):

Johane Murray


Other key lawyers:

Nick Scott; Richard Whyte; James Roscoe; Colin Morrison; Chris McDaid; Tanya MacLeod; Allan Cairns; Elaine Petterson


Testimonials

‘They have a strong and deep team providing a range of legal advice and are closely aligned with our values and approach to business.’

‘Johanne Murray’s technical knowledge and commercial approach is excellent.’

‘Having had no previous experience of the firm we have been very impressed.’

‘Brodies consistently deliver a strong level of service, with an eye on commerciality, whilst delivering excellent value for money.’

‘Elaine Petterson operates effectively in a competitive market, displaying a commendable breadth of experience and expertise.’

‘Allan Cairns is always fully up to date on our account.’

‘The team is professional, high quality and commercially aware.’

‘James Roscoe is experienced, professional, responsive, efficient and commercially aware.’

Key clients

Ambassador Group


BBC Pension Trust


Bruntwood SciTech


Cervidae


Cordatus Property Unit Trust


Drum Property Group


Ediston Real Estate


Frasers Group


GG Cap


Knight Property Group


Moda Living


Nuveen


Orion Capital Partners


Realty Income


Soller Group


Union Investment Institutional Property


Work highlights


  • Advised Bruntwood SciTech on the acquisition of the Met Tower in Glasgow for redevelopment as a centre for technology innovation.
  • Acted for Janus Henderson in the £905m investment sale of the entire Janus Henderson UK Property PAIF portfolio of assets to Oval Real Estate.
  • Acted for Henderson Park and Eurofund in the £140m acquisition of the Jersey trust owning the Silverburn Shopping Centre in Glasgow.

Burness Paull LLP

Drawing on its expertise in investment, development, regeneration, finance and corporate occupier mandates, Burness Paull LLP is active across the full remit of real estate assets. The practice is led from Glasgow by Scott Peterkin, who has a particular focus on property development work within the housebuilding sector. Also renowned for his development acumen is Richard Rennie, who draws on his dual qualification in England and Scotland to further assist with investment mandates. Among other standout partners are Nick Naddell, an individual with investment, forward funding and landlord and tenant expertise, and commercial leasing specialist Graeme Bradshaw, a regular advisor to occupiers, developers, and investors in the retail and leisure sectors.

Practice head(s):

Scott Peterkin


Other key lawyers:

Richard Rennie; Nick Naddell; Peter Chambers; Steven McKinlay; Graeme Bradshaw


Testimonials

‘Incredibly proactive.’

‘Graeme Bradshaw is a breath of fresh air. He is commercially minded with an ability to cut through and simplify complex matters.’

‘Excellent partner availability.’

‘Richard Rennie is efficient with solid commercial advice.’

‘Burness Paull are true market leaders in terms of their knowledge and experience. They have a strength in depth that covers all markets, and their advice adds real value to our transactions.’

‘Scott Peterkin’s integrity and personal commitment to his clients is central to his consistent success in achieving positive results in negotiations. He is outcome-driven and strikes an exceptional balance between strategic and detailed approaches.’

Key clients

Heimstaden Bostad


Wm Morris Supermarkets Ltd


Westbrook Partners


CA Ventures


Meadowbank Consortium


Supermarket Income REIT


LSPIM


Buccleuch, Cruden


David Lloyd Leisure Limited


Impact Healthcare REIT


Tracey Investments Limited


Cazoo


Work highlights


  • Advised Heimstaden Bostad on a build-to-rent development valued at £124m.
  • Advised Wm Morrison Supermarkets Limited on its £190m acquisition of the McColl’s business and assets, including 1,160 properties operated by McColl’s throughout the UK.
  • Advised Westbrook Partners in the forward purchase of an industrial portfolio (Urban and City Gateway) from Chancerygate, valued at £172m.

CMS

CMS‘s practice is headed by Paul Carter, an expert in development, funding and investment matters; he and the team are well-versed in all facets of real estate, catering to a mixture of clients from the student accommodation, life sciences, public sector, leisure and BTR fields, among others. Iain Doran combines his vast development expertise with support in rent review disputes and distressed portfolio deals, whereas Allan Wernham is a regular port of call for major regeneration projects in the retail sector. Further standout individuals include Darina Kerr, an expert in commercial property transactions, and of counsel Roland Smyth, head of the firm’s hotels and leisure group in Scotland.

Practice head(s):

Paul Carter


Other key lawyers:

Iain Doran; Allan Wernham; Chris Rae; Darina Kerr; Carol Nisbet; Margaret McLean; Mike McColl; Roland Smyth


Testimonials

‘Excellent attention to detail and client liaison skills. They work very well as a team.’

‘Chris Rae is a great leader.’

‘Chris Rae communicates very effectively and listens to clients’ priorities on transactions to ensure they are understood.’

Key clients

City of Edinburgh Council


SSE


University of Glasgow


Nuveen


Landsec


Kennedy Wilson


Hargreaves Services (Blindwells) Limited


Clearbell Property Partners and Iceni Property Asset Management


The Council of the Borough of South Tyneside


University of Glasgow


Work highlights


  • Advising SSE on the acquisition of Aberarder Windfarm from RES.
  • Advised Nuveen Real Assets on the £1bn retail-led city centre regeneration at St James Quarter in Edinburgh.
  • Advising the University of Glasgow on the proposed appointment of a strategic development partner under a £150m mixed use quarter and innovation zone joint venture.

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP handles an abundance of high-end investments, cross-border portfolio transactions, and commercial and residential developments. Practice head Katharine Hardie is an essential contact in the latter space, with a particular focus on the private sector; she is further noted for her expertise in regeneration projects. Also recommended for his specialism in development is Paul Connolly, while Russell Munro‘s capabilities extend to investment and finance affairs. Drawing on his dual qualification in England and Scotland, Martin Devine is knowledgeable of a broad spectrum of asset classes, including BTR projects and international transactions in the hotel and healthcare sectors.

Practice head(s):

Katharine Hardie


Other key lawyers:

Paul Connolly; Russell Munro; Martin Devine; Lesley-Anne Todd


Testimonials

‘Excellent technical and commercial skills.’

‘Katharine Hardie and Paul Connolly understand our business very well. They are technical, knowledgeable and commercial.’

‘The practice has a dedicated team of personnel with expertise in property, planning, construction and infrastructure.’

Key clients

HFD Group


Legal & General UK Build-to-Rent Fund


Aviva Group


Bricks Capital Limited


LCN Capital Partners


Motor Fuel Limited


Ropemaker Properties Limited


Sirius Real Estate Limited


Barclays Bank


Investcorp


Wheatley Housing Group


CALA Management Limited


Heylo Housing Group Limited


Lovell Partnerships Limited


Peel Group


Albert Bartlett


Henry Boot Developments


Abrdn


Hines/HSBC Alternative Investments


Railpen


Work highlights


  • Advised HFD Glasgow 2 Limited on the development and sale of 177 Bothwell Street in Glasgow.
  • Ongoing advice to Winchburgh Developments Limited on the full range of legal disciplines relating to the delivery of a new town and associated infrastructure.
  • Ongoing advice to Barclays Bank plc on their development of a new office campus in Tradeston in Glasgow.

Shepherd and Wedderburn

Shepherd and Wedderburn is often engaged on large-scale development, investment, acquisition and regeneration affairs, with particular expertise in the residential, retail, hotel, industrial, tech, manufacturing and renewable energy sectors. The Glasgow-based Andrew Hall specialises in residential developments and anchors the firm’s housebuilding group, advising housebuilders and landowners on the purchase and disposal of sites. Fellow co-head David Mitchell, the main contact in Edinburgh, has extensive experience acting on office, retail and mixed-use developments across Scotland. Also in Edinburgh, Scott Ritchie is recommended for his expertise in commercial development projects.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Hall; David Mitchell


Other key lawyers:

Scott Ritchie; Elaine Todd; Judith Stephenson; Emma Guthrie


Testimonials

‘Excellent multidisciplinary team that is always able to provide guidance through highly challenging and complex issues and deals.’

‘Andrew Hall provides a potent combination of personal service, sage guidance and professionalism.’

‘Great advice, speed of service and understanding of their client’s needs.’

Key clients

British Land plc


Federated Hermes


BlackRockTilstone


CBREGI UK Property Fund


Miller Homes


LondonMetric


Clydeport


BAE Systems


Taylor Wimpey


Work highlights


  • Advising Miller Developments on the £180m sale of a strategic residential development site at Auchendinny to Bellway Homes, with a gross development value of £237m.
  • Advising Taylor Wimpey UK Limited on all property aspects of the development of Greater Blindwells, a new town in East Lothian, estimated to deliver 6,000 homes with community facilities and shops by 2024.
  • Advising Mangata Edge Ltd on the £83m investment for a facility to be built at Prestwick Aerospace Park. The site is to be used for the manufacturing, testing, research and development of operations within the client’s global satellite network.

Addleshaw Goddard

Addleshaw Goddard‘s team co-head Miles Ede specialises in UK-wide asset management and portfolio transactions, investment deals, and commercial and residential development projects; he has considerable experience in the telecoms sector. Fellow co-head and development expert Alison Newton is a go-to for leasing and regeneration affairs and is active across the office, retail, student accommodation, hotels and leisure fields.

Practice head(s):

Miles Ede; Alison Newton


Other key lawyers:

Kirsty Nicholson; Caroline Coulter


Testimonials

‘Dynamic, collaborative and proactive. Exemplary service from partner through to associate.’

‘Dedicated, attentive and deliver on time.’

‘The team are commercially aware and offer pragmatic solutions informed by a depth of knowledge and experience. They very much feel like an extension to the internal team.’

‘Miles Ede and the team work well together and always give commercial advice.’

‘Great option if you have a cross-border transaction and need support in Scotland.’

‘Caroline Coulter is conscientious.’

Key clients

BT (British Telecomms)


Greenridge


Baumont


Heitman


Almcor Spendarry


Rillbank Development


Port of Dundee/Forth Ports


Breal Zeta


Wireless Infrastructure Group


Work highlights


Burges Salmon LLP

Although Burges Salmon LLP operates across a broad range of real estate assets, the team demonstrates particular accomplishment in respect of hospitality, leisure and renewable energy assets. Practice head and co-founder of the Edinburgh office Robert Forman is a regular advisor to developers, funders and investors in acquisition, disposal, leasing, development and secured lending matters. Director Claire MacLean provides the team with more firepower in investment and development transactions, as well as landlord and tenant agreements.

Practice head(s):

Robert Forman


Other key lawyers:

Claire MacLean; Fay Lamb


Key clients

Pandox AB


London & Regional


AroundTown Hotels


Atlas Hotels


Baywa-re


A&O Hostels


LRC Group


Realty Inc


Zetland Capital Partners


West Ranga Property Group Limited


Work highlights


  • Advising Atlas Hotels on the £62m acquisition of a portfolio of six hotels across Scotland.
  • Advising Drax on the real estate aspects of the £500m extension to the Cruachan power station.
  • Advising West Ranga on the sale and leaseback of a portfolio of Cazoo sites across the UK.

Dentons

Embedded in its UK-wide real estate practice, Dentons runs a broad workload and is adept in leasing, transactional, funding and development matters. Practice head Brian Hutcheson has considerable experience in the BTR, office, retail, hotels and leisure, logistics and student accommodation fields. A further standout individual is Barry Edgar, an all-rounder who acts on development, leasing and investment endeavours; he demonstrates particular expertise in transport-related projects.

Practice head(s):

Brian Hutcheson


Other key lawyers:

Barry Edgar; Paul Haniford; Susan Gillon; Hannah Currie


Testimonials

‘Barry Edgar is very solution-driven and makes it his business to know our business.’

‘It’s the people that work in this team that make the difference. They have been excellent.’

‘Brian Hutcheson is attentive, intelligent, pragmatic and detailed in his approach.’

‘Clarity of mind is what you need with a lawyer and Brian Hutcheson is exactly that – an impressive character.’

‘Attentive, responsive and accurate when drafting documents.’

Key clients

M & G Real Estate


Marks & Spencer Plc


Redevco


Praxis Asset Management


Aberdeen Standard


Peel Retail Developments Limited


Universities Superannuation Scheme Limited


The Student Hotel


Inmark Asset Management Co. Limited


Sigma Capital


Sainsburys


Royal Mail


Frasers Group


Work highlights


  • Assisting M&G Real Estate with their £20m sale to CEG of the landmark Glasgow scheme named the Grid on Cadogan Street.
  • Acted for Frasers Group in the disposal of two retail parks in Glasgow and Aberdeen as part of a UK-wide retail park portfolio disposal, with a value of around £205m.
  • Advice to Pale Blue Dot Energy Limited, the lead developer of the Acorn project designed to combat climate change.

Morton Fraser MacRoberts

Morton Fraser MacRoberts‘ real estate and infrastructure practice (the result of the late-2023 merger between Morton Fraser and MacRoberts LLP) draws from the firm’s wider construction, planning, banking and finance, corporate and litigation expertise to support on development, investment, finance, management and property insolvency endeavours. The team has a wealth of experience across the retail, leisure, office, student accommodation, and BTR fields. In addition, industrial and care assets are also expertly handled, owing to the knowledge of Chris McLeish. Practice head Michael Ramsay is a regular advisor to developers, corporate occupiers, investors and funders. Following the merger, Gillian Campbell, Kelsey Gibson, Douglas Lamb and Lisa Frost are also key members of the practice.

Practice head(s):

Michael Ramsay


Other key lawyers:

Chris McLeish; Amy Entwistle; Alan Stewart; Suzanne Hardie; Gillian Campbell; Kelsey Gibson; Douglas Lamb; Lisa Frost; David McGuire; John McQuillan; Nicole Cook; Mark Quinn


Testimonials

‘The team are exceptional. Their attention to detail, speed of response and commitment is second to none. A very high-quality service at a very reasonable cost.’

‘Chris McLeish gives me a level of service that would be extremely hard to beat.

‘Chris McLeish is a very hard-working and diligent advisor.’

Key clients

Chancerygate


Diageo


BAM Properties


Phoenix Capital


Tesco


Urban Logistics


Charterhouse Investments


Places for People


Patrizia


Corran Properties


Work highlights


  • Advised BAM Properties on various leases at the eight-story grade A office development at Capital Square in Edinburgh.
  • Advised Diageo Scotland on taking a lease of grade A office space at the Onyx Building in Glasgow.
  • Advised Urban Logistics on the acquisition of various logistics assets across Scotland.

Anderson Strathern

Accredited commercial leasing specialist Anne McGregor heads Anderson Strathern‘s practice; she has considerable experience in development and investment projects and is a regular advisor to institutional landlords. Active across both the public and private sectors, the team is also home to Ruth Maclean, an established caterer to housebuilders, Deborah Lovell, a go-to in the sale and purchase of land for development, and the public sector-focused, Euan Mellor.

Practice head(s):

Anne McGregor


Other key lawyers:

Ruth Maclean; Deborah Lovell; Euan Mellor; Fiona McKinnon


Testimonials

‘A team with high commercial awareness and a willingness to walk us through options.’

‘Ruth Maclean is commercial, pragmatic, and able to explain outcomes and options to non-legal professionals.’

‘Anne McGregor is a committed, sharp and pragmatic lawyer.’

Key clients

Crown Estate Scotland


The Wakelyn Trust and associated company


Apex Hotels Limited


Edinburgh Napier University


Clyde Gateway Developments Limited


The Trustees of Sailors’ Society


CCG Ltd


Hy2go Limited


Braehead Shopping Centre


Work highlights


  • Advised Crown Estate Scotland on Scotwind Option Agreements netting £750m in option fees and £1bn in inward investment in clean energy in Scotland.
  • Advising Braehead Shopping Centre on all matters relating to its multi-let shopping centre and retail park.

Davidson Chalmers Stewart

At Davidson Chalmers Stewart, the workload comprises development, investment and commercial leasing mandates; the group have observed a notable uptick in work pertaining to the housebuilding and healthcare sectors. With the experienced Andrew Chalmers at the helm, the team counts UK and international investment funds, developers and leisure operators to its client roster. Gavin Maclean is noted for his expertise in the fields of retail and leisure, while Bruce Lancaster‘s capabilities further encompass forward funding agreements. Andy Tyler joined as partner coming from Burness Paull LLP in August 2023.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Chalmers


Other key lawyers:

Gavin Maclean; Bruce Lancaster; Nicola Scott; Andy Tyler


Testimonials

‘The commercial property team are incredibly supportive. I always get the right advice and with no ambiguity.’

‘I have found them to offer a personable service, providing partner level support which has allowed our business to deal with situations in an efficient and professional manner.’

‘Andrew Chalmers and Gavin McLean are very hands on. I have no hesitation in recommending the team and look forward to many more years successfully delivering projects together.’

‘A very approachable team who get back quickly to issues and spend time explaining anything that is difficult to understand.’

‘They are proactive and very easy to approach. I find them flexible and straightforward.’

Key clients

Chris Stewart Group


Muir Group


Peel Group


Suez Group


Tartan Leisure Limited


Thermo Fisher Inc


Law Society of Scotland


Black Sheep Coffee


Computacentre plc


Balhousie Care Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Acalis Care/Selba Care Limited on the acquisition of the entire portfolio of Balhousie Care Limited (24 nursing/care homes).
  • Advised Tartan Leisure Limited on the £60m site acquisition at Ratho (Edinburgh) for an artificial surf park.
  • Advised Clyde Munro Dental Group on acquiring 10 dental practices in 12 months.

DWF

At DWF, team co-head Kevin McGlone is accomplished in respect of hotel, leisure, healthcare and student accommodation assets, acting across leasing, finance, transactional and development matters. Fellow co-head David Ratter has considerable experience in strategic land development, investment and regeneration endeavours, while Geoff Stansfield is noted for his specialism in asset management, funding and cross-border portfolio matters. As a whole, the practice leverages the firm’s broader planning, construction, banking, finance, corporate and tax expertise.

Practice head(s):

Kevin McGlone; David Ratter


Other key lawyers:

Geoff Stansfield; Ferga McKay; Ashleigh Farrell


Key clients

Aberdeen City Council


Marks & Spencers


RBS/Natwest


Swan Real Estate plc


Lanark Student Living


Alvarium


Hallam Land Management


Unity Trust Bank


Cove Communities


Dreamer Hotel Group


Seacare Hospitality Group


Ambassador Group


AR


Mileway


Work highlights


  • Advising Cove Corporate Investments Ltd on the acquisition from KA & R Campbell Holdings Limited consisting of 11 major holiday park assets.
  • Advising Swan Real Estate on a finance deal which included the purchase of a large multi-use development site in Ayr to include 750 dwelling houses and ranking agreements.
  • Advising Hallam Land Management on the negotiation of a promotion agreement for a residential development (80 acres) in Goodtrees Balerno in Edinburgh.

Gillespie Macandrew LLP

Gillespie Macandrew LLP caters to a broad client roster which includes retailers, leisure outfits, occupiers, developers, lenders and housebuilders, with residential development expert Harry Smith serving as the main point of contact within the latter space. Team head Kenny Irons‘ expertise spans development, investment and leasing mandates; he has also garnered extensive exposure to cross-border transactions, an area in which landlords also further instruct all-rounder Gregor Peebles. Andrew Leslie was promoted to legal director in March 2022.

Practice head(s):

Kenneth Irons


Other key lawyers:

Gregor Peebles; Harry Smith; Andrew Leslie


Testimonials

‘Proactive problem solvers with a wealth of experience.’

‘Standout individuals are Harry Smith and Andrew Leslie.’

‘I’ve always been able to rely on the team for pragmatic and resourced advice across the spectrum of real estate and associated disciplines.’

Key clients

Assetz Capital


Binn Group Limited


Bellway Homes Limited


Westerleigh Group Limited


Majestic (Belford) Limited


Robertson Partnership Homes Limited


Likewise Group PLC


Valen Veil UK Limited


Watches of Switzerland PLC


Work highlights


Lindsays

Lindsays is geared to support across a breadth of investment, occupier, development, finance and transactional matters. The team counts a number of well-known retailers among its client roster and has observed a notable uptick in work stemming from the healthcare sector, an area in which Kenny Gray excels alongside office and hotel-related transactions. Practice head Derek Nash is an established name in both the Scottish and London markets.

Practice head(s):

Derek Nash


Other key lawyers:

Kenny Gray; Dawn Anderson; Darren Lightfoot


Testimonials

‘Personable and well-resourced team.’

‘Extensive experience in handling pharmacy-related transactions.’

‘I often refer clients to Kenny Gray due to his quality of work and experience in handling pharmacy-related transactions.’

‘Derek Nash is pragmatic, quick and a friendly face to deal with.’

‘The practice is very approachable, professional and very knowledgeable.’

‘Dawn Anderson is superb. I would always use her for professional property work because she is thorough, efficient, approachable and incredibly hard working.’

Key clients

Assetz SME Capital Limited


Waterstones Booksellers Limited


Smyths Toys UK Limited


Grafton Group plc


EG Group


LF UK Office SCI


RRH Finance Limited


Well Pharmacies


Royal National Institute of Blind People


Chase de Vere IFA Group Plc


Work highlights


  • Advised Assetz SME Capital Limited on a development finance loan for a property developer.
  • Advised Souter Hotels Limited on the purchase of The Castlebay Hotel on the island of Barra.

Shoosmiths

Residential and commercial development expert Janette Speed heads Shoosmiths‘ practice, which boasts a number of living sector, retail and leisure clients to its roster. Elsewhere, the group’s expertise spans corporate occupier, finance and investment mandates, with Glasgow office head Barry McKeown noted for his housebuilding sector specialism. Notable additions to the team include Lyndsey O’Connor from Dentons in February 2022, and Ian McCann from CMS in April 2022.

Practice head(s):

Janette Speed


Other key lawyers:

Barry McKeown; Robin Mitchell; Sheelagh Cooley; Lauren Miller; Lyndsey O’Connor; Gillian Ralph; John Dunlop; Ian McCann


Testimonials

‘Highly skilled professional team with a tailored personal touch.’

‘Barry McKeown has exceptional commercial knowledge with a professional attitude to finding solutions and getting deals done. A real pleasure to work with.’

‘Offers a multidisciplined approach across the housebuilding sector from initial offer and contract to land acquisition and planning advice.’

‘Janette Speed and Gillian Ralph are standout individuals.’

‘They give sound advice and offer problem-solving solutions.’

‘The service received during a challenging transaction was excellent and the advice meant all was kept on track.’

‘Barry McKeown is a very personable solicitor who offers flexible solutions.’

‘Lauren Miller is a great no-nonsense solicitor who aims to get the deal done without delay. She has a great manner and is very helpful.’

Key clients

Taylor Wimpey UK Limited


Leftfield Capital


Lush Retail Limited


Screwfix Direct Limited


Watkin Property Ventures Investments Limited


Bellway Homes Limited


Housing Growth Partnership


Newtide Investments Limited


Robertson Residential Group


Robertson Properties Limited


Lovell Partnerships Limited


MacTaggart & Mickel Homes Limited


Glasgow City Council


Persimmon Homes Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Lush on the acquisition of a new flagship store on Buchanan Street in Glasgow.
  • Advised Bellway Homes on the £23.7m acquisition of a site for residential development at Auchendinny in Midlothian.
  • Advised Taylor Wimpey on the acquisition of two areas of ground at Winchburgh for the development of 190 new homes.

Aberdein Considine

Aberdein Considine‘s broad expertise spans investment, development, regeneration, asset management, insolvency and finance affairs with recent work spanning the food and drink, retail, leisure, hospitality and housebuilding sectors. Team head Paul Jennings‘ personal practice often sees him handling sales, acquisitions and lettings at commercial offices, while David Orr is noted for his knowledge of retail and industrial assets in finance and transactional matters. In a notable change, Chris Richardson joined from Anderson Strathern in November 2022.

Practice head(s):

Paul Jennings


Other key lawyers:

Chris Richardson; David Orr


Testimonials

‘The most commercially minded practice that I work with.’

‘Paul Jennings is a businessman first and a lawyer second – and that still makes him the best lawyer I deal with.’

‘Paul Jennings is the standout solicitor in Scotland – a true team player who integrates himself with us as client, the agents we are working with, and the technical team that give us the other advice on each deal.’

‘Their main strength is the ability to pick up the discrete elements of highly complex transactions.’

‘Chris Richardson delivers a second-to-none service, often coordinating with numerous other parties to deliver great outcomes.’

Key clients

Westerwood Group of Companies


Greggs Plc


ROX


Victoria Square Woking Limited


Woking Borough Council


Specialist Computer Centres plc


Kiko Milano


Bute Yard Limited


Edinburgh Construction Limited


FirstStage Studios Limited


Deans Civil Engineering Limited


Jedderfield Limited


Buck’s Bar Group


Work highlights


  • Advised Victoria Square Woking Limited on the redevelopment of Woking town centre.
  • Advised Westerwood Group on the acquisition of 83 Buchanan Street in Glasgow.
  • Advised ROX on the acquisition of a flagship store at Battersea Power Station.

BTO Solicitors LLP

BTO Solicitors LLP operates across a wealth of assets, including retail, housebuilder, renewables, social housing, hotel and leisure sites, with Graeme Kelly serving as an essential contact in the latter space. Practice head Jane Steel is well-versed in investment affairs, although the team’s wider capabilities span development, finance, and estate management and diversification matters. Other recommended individuals include firm chairman David Gibson, an expert in matters with a corporate crossover, and Scott Buchan, whose recent work includes BTR projects.

Practice head(s):

Jane Steel


Other key lawyers:

David Gibson; Scott Buchan; Graeme Kelly; Peter Graham


Testimonials

‘They know their clients’ needs and provide comprehensive advice.’

‘Scott Buchan knows how to use a telephone unlike many solicitors nowadays.’

‘All communication is clear and timely which has given me the confidence and assurance that BTO are providing a reliable service. The people that I have dealt with are knowledgeable and eager.’

‘I have worked closely with Peter Graham and am impressed not only with his knowledge in commercial conveyancing but his ability to update on progress without prompting.’

‘Their incredible work ethic means that I will be happy to continue to work with them in the future.’

‘The team understand their sector and can provide a varying level of service depending on what is required. They are equipped to offer and understand the full spectrum.’

‘Scott Buchan operates as if he is part of our own internal team – he is responsive and has a deep knowledge of the sector and how to resolve and avoid issues.’

Key clients

The Scottish Football Association


M7 Real Estate Limited


Scott Group


Standard Real Estate Ltd


Wirefox Management Limited


Panacea (Scotland) Limited


Kinross Estates limited


Martin Property Group


Inside Land Group


Bright Stars Nurseries Limited


Mar Estates Limited


Stena Line Group


Work highlights


  • Advising Mactaggart & Mickel on the sale of a housebuilding and timber frame business.
  • Advising Largo Leisure Limited on the disposal of four holiday parks.
  • Advising Bright Stars Nurseries Limited on its acquisition of a series of well-known children’s nurseries in Scotland.

Eversheds Sutherland

Eversheds Sutherland directs particular emphasis towards development, investment, corporate occupier and finance work, though also has a strong track record in leasing and portfolio management affairs. Drawing on his dual qualification in England and Scotland, team head Steven Dick handles an abundance of development deals; his practice places particular focus on the energy transition.

Practice head(s):

Steven Dick


Other key lawyers:

Christine Barnsley; Fiona Linklater; Alisdair Jamieson


Testimonials

‘Knowledgeable and quick to respond.’

Key clients

Legal & General


Aviva


Microsoft


Gresham House Plc


Wm Morrison


Northland Power


Goodstone Living


EDF Energy


Lloyds Banking Group


Precis Capital


High Speed Two (HS2) Limited


Industria Resources


Next Plc


Mitchells & Butlers Retail Limited


National Grid


Technip FMC


CVS UK Limited


UK Finance Limited


GlaxoSmithKline Plc


EVH Finance Limited


Elite Partners Capital


Roxy Leisure


Work highlights


gunnercooke LLP

Helmed by Simon Etchells, an expert in development and investment affairs, gunnercooke LLP is well-placed to handle student accommodation, retail, leisure, office and restaurant assets. Etchells and the group often draw on the firm’s wider banking, finance, construction, corporate and litigation expertise. Having joined the firm from Dentons in March 2022, Rachel Dunn leverages her dual qualification in England and Scotland to support on the Scottish aspects of national and international deals.

Practice head(s):

Simon Etchells


Other key lawyers:

Rachel Dunn


Testimonials

‘A team that is quick to respond to requests and make sure you are aware if there are problems which might delay the process.’

‘Simon Etchells and Rachel Dunn are highly recommended.’

‘An assembly of like-minded and thoroughly professional people who provide a personal service across all specialties.’

‘They place the client at the centre of what they do.’

‘Simon Etchells never drops a ball and always has your back no matter what. He has created a team around him including Rachel Dunn who are like minded and know the best way forward.’

Key clients

Industry Wide Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme Trustees


Farm and Pet Place Limited


LFR Leisure Limited t/a Pizza Punks


Valencia Waste Management Limited


Robinson Webster Holdings Limited


Smart Green Shipping Alliance Limited


Renfin International Group of Companies


H2O Power Limited


Koehler Renewable Energy UK Limited


Landmark Power Holdings Limited


Work highlights


  • Acting for Evelyn Partners on the purchase of a Grade A office letting in Glasgow (177 Bothwell Street).
  • Assisting Laing with office leases.
  • Assisting Smart Green Shipping with securing a full testing site for the installation of FastRig.

Harper Macleod LLP

Often instructed to assist with development, investment, finance and leasing matters, Harper Macleod LLP is active across a number of real estate assets, including residential, retail, healthcare, hospitality, leisure and telecoms sites. John Meehan heads the practice, which also includes David Bell and Chris Noble, both of whom are accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as specialists in commercial leasing law.

Practice head(s):

John Meehan


Other key lawyers:

David Bell; Chris Noble; Caroline Summers; Jenna McLean


Testimonials

‘Where necessary the team offers alternative solutions to complex issues which has added additional value to client assets.’

‘John Meehan has always provided excellent advice and is generally very reactive and willing to offer up solutions where necessary.’

‘In depth knowledge and experience.’

‘Caroline Summers’ extensive knowledge in the sector helped us avoid all the contractual pitfalls and ensured a successful project completion.’

‘Knowledge and market experience is second to none.’

‘John Meehan provides a service that is consistent and efficient.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas


City Property Glasgow (Investments) LLP


ABF plc


Scotia Homes


ABRDN


CBRE Investment Management


James Keiller Property Holdings


JD Sports Fashion Plc


Halfords Plc


Caffé Nero


Glenmorangie/LVMH Group


Queensway Group


Card Factory


Persimmon Homes plc


Clyde Munro Dental


Derwent Manor Ventures


Cityfibre Limited


Independent Vet Care Limited


OakNorth Bank Plc


Coach


Work highlights


  • Advising Queensway Group on the Scottish elements of the £420m sale of their majority shareholding in Raag Hotels Limited involving hotel sites in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
  • Advising James Keiller Group on the acquisition and development of a new retail park near Aberdeen comprising in excess of 70,000 square feet.
  • Advising clients of CBRE Investment Management on the sale of properties in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Paisley with a total deal value in excess of £12m.

TLT

TLT‘s team head Brian Armour specialises in landlord and tenant work, as well as transactional and development matters; he also has experience handling retail sites, offices, factories and owner-occupied commercial premises. The practice is also home to Howard Beach, who is accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a specialist in Commercial Leasing Law. Other recommended individuals include Donna Strong, an expert in the retail and leisure sectors, and Andrew McCowan, reputed for his leasing, development and investment work.

Practice head(s):

Brian Armour


Other key lawyers:

Howard Beach; Donna Strong; Andrew McCowan


Testimonials

‘Their focus and experience guided me through the legal procedures that were required for the business.’

‘Donna Strong gave us a positive and encouraging experience, easing us through the processes.’

‘Having recently expanded the remit of legal work required, I was pleased to discover there is a real strength in depth at the firm.’

‘Responsive team with an excellent commercial approach.’

‘You can be confident that whichever team member you speak to, they will be able to work with their colleagues to get to the right answer.’

‘They always go the extra mile.’

‘Howard Beach makes you feel like you’re his only client. His knowledge and experience are a huge advantage along with his accessibility.’

Key clients

Tui


Nationwide Building Society


Santander plc


Greene King Brewing and Retailing Limited


Q-Park


Tapi Carpets and Floors


Beaverbrooks the Jewellers Limited


Tim Hortons


Ashfield Land


Don McNamaras Limited


Work highlights


  • Assisted PREM Group with the purchase of 74 serviced apartments in 4 adjacent blocks with related car parking.
  • Advised Danobe Securities on the acquisition of a multi-let office development in a business park near Glasgow.
  • Advised Land and Beyond Ltd on the purchase of a Glasgow office pavilion by way of a sale-and-leaseback transaction in a first venture into Scotland for the Israeli client.

Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP

Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP‘s broad workload spans development, acquisition, sale, portfolio and leasing matters. The practice is a go-to for distillery and brewery clients in the Highlands, though is also well-placed to handle retail, healthcare, renewables, leisure and hospitality assets elsewhere. Among the team are practice head Michael Dewar, a regular advisor to owners in office park and industrial developments, and Joanne Ockrim, an expert in leasing, secured lending and investment endeavours.

Practice head(s):

Michael Dewar


Other key lawyers:

Paul Adams; Andy McFarlane; Joanne Ockrim


Testimonials

‘Commercial, hardworking and friendly team.’

‘Client care is very important to them.’

‘Andy McFarlane is a commercial and approachable negotiator who spends a lot of time with clients.’

Key clients

The Prudential Assurance Company Ltd


Speymalt Whisky Distributors Ltd


Lovat Highland Estates Ltd


RWE Renewables UK Swindon


S. M. Bayne & Company Ltd


Loch Ness Monster Exhibition Centre Ltd


GAP Group Ltd


Lotus Group Ltd


Mellness Crofters Estate Ltd


Renewable Energy Systems Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised Gap Group Properties Limited on the purchase of Citypoint Building (Glasgow).
  • Advised M&G Property Portfolio and M & G UK Property Limited Partnership on the disposal of 2 multi-let industrial sites in Aberdeen.
  • Advised Melness Crofters Estate on the establishment of Sutherland Space Hub for vertical satellite launches.

Bellwether Green

Bellwether Green's real estate team is led from Glasgow by firm co-founder John Bingham; he works alongside Steven Templeton. Together, the duo handle transactions, refinancings and lettings, acting for a roster of clients which includes major property groups, banks, professional services firms and other well-known corporates.

Practice head(s):

John Bingham


Other key lawyers:

Stephen Templeton


Work highlights


  • Advising Vertu Motors on the Scots law aspects of the refinancing of parts of the estate in the acquisition of Helston Garages Group; total gross consideration for the transaction is £182m.
  • Advised Belgate Group on the purchase of the Howgate Shopping Centre, Falkirk, with subsequent new lettings to Sky, Quiz, Card Factory and River Island.
  • Advised Creative Scotland on all property work in relation to the letting of a 160,000 sq. ft film studio.

Blackadders LLP

Key strengths of Blackadders LLP include development, investment, sale, acquisition, leasing and portfolio management matters, with an increasing number of instructions stemming from the retail and leisure sectors. Fraser Hardie left the firm in March 2023 and subsequently took on an in-house role at CalaChem, and Azeem Arshad departed for Spencer West in August 2023.

Practice head(s):

Emma Gray


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Yule


Key clients

AG Restaurants Ltd


DS Group


A & J Stephen


Morris Leslie Group


BMI Healthcare


Hays Travel


Curtis Banks


James Hay Pension Trustees


Coffeepots


Work highlights


  • Providing the Bank of Middle East with Scottish property advice and dealing with various standard securities.
  • Advising Cumberland Building Society on numerous security transactions in properties across Scotland.
  • Acting for DS Group in a number of high value acquisitions across Scotland.

Thorntons

Thorntons caters to a mixture of clients from the education, social housing, retail and healthcare sectors. Gary Thomas‘ extensive experience spans acquisitions, disposals and fund work, while Ian Fraser is noted for his leasing expertise. Aimee Gibbons is also recommended for her involvement in investment, development and portfolio management affairs.

Practice head(s):

Ewan Miller; Janet McIntyre


Other key lawyers:

Ian Fraser; Gary Thomas; Hugo Allan; Aimee Gibbons


Testimonials

‘Thorntons’ continued professionalism has been greatly appreciated in assisting with and completing some exceptionally complicated property transactions.’

‘The support and expertise of Ian Fraser and the wider team has been invaluable.’

‘Ian Fraser is knowledgeable, experienced, and pragmatic, which is often demonstrated and helps when negotiating difficult transactions.’

Key clients

Bauer Radio Limited


Forager Pubs Limited


Newbridge Warehouse 1 Limited


Messrs K & D Henderson


University of Stirling


Culross Property Partnership LLP


Robert Adam & Sons


Shed5 Limited


Eddy’s Food Station


Scotch Whisky Investments Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Bauer Radio Limited in the lease of a new office and broadcasting studio in St James Quarter (Edinburgh).
  • Advised Robert Adam and Sons on the sale to Taylor Wimpey of a large housing development site comprising over 900 housing units.
  • Advising Scotch Whisky Trading House (Scotch Whisky investments) on the acquisition of a marque site for their proposed global headquarters in Fife.

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP

Drawing on its presence across Scotland and throughout the UK, the team at Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP is well-versed in leasing, transactional, development and finance affairs; it also demonstrates particular expertise across energy, retail and office assets. Paul Mason is a key point of contact and counts finance and energy-related endeavours among his core strengths.

Practice head(s):

Paul Mason; John Ralph


Other key lawyers:

Clare Lamond; Ewelina Kurek; Gillian Buchanan; Lucy Chambers


Key clients

Renewable Energy Systems Limited


Statkraft UK Limited


Airwave Solutions Limited


Lloyds Banking Group


Ministry of Justice


Post Office Limited


Smartsheet UK Limited


Carpetright plc


Superdrug Stores plc


Savers Health and Beauty


The Perfume Shop


Greggs plc


Holland & Barrett Retail Limited


Kans and Kandy Investments


Caretech / Spark of Genius


Relendex Security Trustees Limited


Augean PLC


Shell UK


Hilltop Credit Partners


Noriker Power


Oche UK


Tuli Group


Black Sheep Coffee


Triodos Bank


Beer 52


Bird & Blend Tea


Hermes


Tower Pension Trustees


Hilltop Credit Partners Limited


Shell International


Vattenfall Wind Power


Savitri Holdings


KFC


Caretech Community Services


Work highlights


  • Acted for Ann Summers in the lease of Unit 9, Level 3, Buchanan Galleries in Glasgow.
  • Advising Holland & Barrett on its lease of its new flagship Edinburgh store.
  • Acted for Hermes in the lease of a property on Inchmuir Road, Whitehill Industrial Estate, Bathgate.