Mark Manning > Ashfords LLP > Exeter, England > Lawyer Profile

Ashfords LLP continues to stand out for its vibrant practice covering the full gamut of energy and projects, with waste and resources, water, and clean energy, as well as decarbonisation and sustainability, remaining central areas of expertise for the practice. The firm is also noted for its ports and harbour works, where it advises clients on regulatory matters, infrastructure, and energy projects. Practice head Brian Farrell specialises in energy generation and waste resource matters, while Carl Thompson is particularly experienced in the construction space. Projects surrounding energy efficiency and carbon saving are regularly handled by Jonathan Croley, who is also active in matters relating to anaerobic digestion. Water, energy, and waste are key sectors covered by Mark Manning.

‘Professional, consistent and responsive’, Ashfords LLP‘s comprehensive practice is split between Exeter and Bristol and covers the gamut of construction mandates. In particular, the team has experience advising across the water, housing, and energy sectors, with further niches covering district heating, public sector and local authority work, and matters involving ports and marinas. The firm also undertakes a range of disputes, with recent mandates including remediation and architect claims. ‘A safe pair of hands’, Carl Thompson heads up the team and has extensive experience covering renewables and infrastructure projects, and PPP work. Patrick Blake and Stephen Homer are also mentioned, advising on a blend of contentious and non-contentious matters. Mark Manning regularly undertakes mandates in water, energy, and waste industries, with Laura Reeve bringing further experience in non-contentious matters in the residential, retail, and education spaces. In 2023, the team saw considerable growth on the contentious side with the addition of Sebastian Pigott, formerly at Atkin Chambers, as well as Sian Barrett, Francesca Rogers, and Sam Phillips.

Ashfords LLP‘s multi-faceted team supports clients across a range of water sector challenges, be they regulatory or commercial. Mark Manning is the key contact for issues tied to water infrastructure projects, advising on construction contracts and mitigating potential sources of litigation. The team’s commercial work is led by Brian Farrell, whose expertise covers M&A and joint ventures and extends to assisting clients with their decarbonisation aims. Augmenting the firm’s regulatory offering is Paul Collins, who arrived from DEFRA in April 2024.