Tom Alder > Lester Aldridge LLP > Southampton, England > Lawyer Profile

Lester Aldridge LLP is noted for its expertise in site acquisitions, franchise agreements, and residential development projects. Tom Alder heads the real estate development team in Southampton, while Mark Benham heads the Bournemouth practice. The ‘extremely professional and knowledgeable’ Suki Samra also co-leads the team, and is recommended for his vast knowledge of real estate finance issues. The team was bolstered by the addition of Sam Wylie, who joined from Moore Barlow in October 2023, contributing his experience in advising landlords on the management of their property portfolios.

Lester Aldridge LLP often acts for housebuilders and developers in mandates involving community infrastructure levy regulations, tree protection orders, section 106 agreements, and planning due diligence. Heading the team in Southampton, Tom Alder has considerable experience handling contentious planning matters. Matt Gilks is another key member of the team, who frequently advises on judicial reviews, compulsory purchase orders, and biodiversity net gain requirements.

The real estate team at Lester Aldridge LLP has a strong track record assisting with finance and restructuring matters, investments, and transactions, spanning residential developments, healthcare and senior housing properties, hotels, ports and marinas. Located in Bournemouth, Mark Benham leads the department and acts for landlords and tenants, housebuilders, developers, PLCs, and care home providers. In the same office, real estate finance head Suki Samra is another key contact, also noted for his expertise in enfranchisement work. In Southampton, planning expert Tom Alder leads the development team, and Michelle Musker acts for mortgage lenders, while associate Phoebe Chandler handles transaction work, as well as bridging and secured lending finance matters. Sam Wylie joined from Moore Barlow in October 2023.