Kate Topp > Ashfords LLP > Bristol, England > Lawyer Profile

Energy and waste, public sector real estate, and residential-led developments make up the portfolio of local and national work that has kept the team at Ashfords LLP busy in recent times. Kate Topp heads the practice from the firm’s Bristol office. In Exeter, Robin De Wreede advises on real estate matters, including large-scale regeneration and development projects. His Exeter colleagues Tim Heal and Simon Bailey focus on residential development matters and real estate investment, respectively. James Heath, who heads up the Plymouth-based team, is a key name to note for secured lending matters. Emma Warren, who often leads on the firm’s energy work, is also recommended.

Rated by clients for its ‘excellent, practical advice’, the team at Ashfords LLP – which is especially well-versed in franchising work – maintains a strong position across the social housing, hospitality, SIPP & SSAS, and residential sectors. The Bristol group is led by Andrew Worley, an experienced partner whose capabilities are concentrated in retail leasing and restaurant franchising work. Kate Topp specialises in residential development matters, including acquisitions and joint ventures, while Isabelle Clement maintains an active housing sector practice, working with various providers on land and unit transactions. Ian Ramsay Tompkins is also noted for his experience in residential matters, acting for both developers and landowners on all manner of deals.

Ashfords LLP‘s broad practice focus sees the team advising on the purchase of energy from waste plants, helping commercial developers to unlock carbon credits, and supporting clients who have been accused of waste permitting breaches, including advising on interviews under caution and negotiating enforcements. The leadership team is divided between two cities; Ian Manners and Kate Topp are based in Bristol, while Brian Farrell and Tim Heal work from Exeter. Bristol-based Zoe Hunt is another name to note. Ben Derrington left the firm in November 2022.