Joanna Deffley > Shakespeare Martineau LLP > Solihull, England > Lawyer Profile

Shakespeare Martineau LLP’s particular area of expertise involves handling strategic land acquisitions and disposals, including due diligence on transactions and long-term joint ventures and the firm routinely operates in the industrial distribution, office, retail, and leisure sectors. Operating across the firm’s Birmingham, Stratford and Solihull offices, regional head Joanna Deffley’s key strength lies in strategic land development, with the capability to advise on large-scale projects, while Solihill’s Neil Gosling notably focuses on delivering housing, regeneration and new town projects. Stratford’s Caroline Irvine advises clients on the granting and acquiring of leases, among various other matters, while Solihull-based Kevin Joynes is well versed in acquisitions and disposals of land for house builders and developers.

A ‘highly competent team’, Shakespeare Martineau LLP’s spectrum of capabilities includes strategic land promotion, multi-ownership land assembly, large-scale transactions and various agreements. It is particularly active in the industrial distribution, office, retail, and leisure sectors. Practice co-head Neil Gosling has a notable focus on delivering large-scale housing, regeneration and new town projects, whilst fellow co-lead Joanna Deffley specialises in strategic land development. Key contact Debbie Irwin is well versed in residential developments for large consortiums. Clive Read’s involvement in the management and development of university and college campuses further strengthens the practice. Adrian Bland is also recommended. Andrew Mellor left the firm in July 2023.