Weightmans LLP

Planning and Construction

Partner - Planning and Construction

John is a specialist planning lawyer providing commercial and practical planning and highways advice to developers; land promoters; and local planning authorities. He has particular expertise in relation to judicial review and section 288 challenges; complex section 106 agreements; community infrastructure levy; planning appeals and enforcement.

As well as extensive experience of helping private developers navigate the planning system, John has significant experience of working with local authorities, police forces and other public bodies, and spent several  years regularly acting as legal adviser at planning committee meetings.

John began his career with a local planning authority before moving into private practice in 2017. He headed up the planning team at a law firm in the Midlands before joining Weightmans in 2024.

Notable cases

Acted for a land promoter in relation to a high court challenge to the Secretary of State’s refusal of planning permission for a major new Data Centre. Advised 5 local authorities in relation to their parliamentary petitions and select committee appearances in relation to the HS2 rail scheme, helping to secure important mitigation measures, including a new primary school. Advised a local authority on its plans to develop a new Community Stadium. Acted for a developer on a successful appeal against a £100,000 CIL charge. Advised an investor on its acquisition of a complex waste, recycling and food digestion plant; successfully resolving enforcement issues and securing a certificate of lawful use. Advised a local planning authority on the introduction of its new local plan and CIL charging schedule. Advised a local planning authority on a Section 106 Agreement for a 10,000 dwelling strategic urban extension. Advised an investor on planning due diligence relating to its acquisition of an International Science Park. Provided strategic planning advice and dealt with a section 106 agreement on behalf of an applicant for a 1,700 dwelling scheme in the Midlands; including a new secondary school; and new leisure and health facilities.