HCR Hewitsons continues to expand its team in Cambridge, as it cements its place in the elite group of local firms. National head of property development James Simpson and head of the Cambridge commercial real estate group Helen Mutucumarana, who has specialist experience in the life sciences, biotechnology, technology, media and emerging tech markets, are recognised leaders in their fields. The ‘approachable, friendly, and knowledgeable’ Ceri Riddell acts for landowners, promoters and developers in complex land deals. Experienced senior associate Becky Woodcock joined from Mishcon de Reya LLP, adding valuable experience in landlord and tenant matters. ‘This team knows the UK property market inside out’ remarks one client.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘I have worked with Ceri Riddell and her team regularly and find them her to be very approachable, friendly, and knowledgeable. It is easy and enjoyable to work alongside her to meet our mutual client's best interests.’
‘I have worked with Helen Mutucumarana on various projects. We find her to be knowledgeable, practical and efficient. We have been very pleased with the service offered.’
‘Helen Mutucumarana is very knowledgeable in aspects relating to infrastructure and similar projects and has been instrumental in working as a team to get a strong deal for landowners.’
‘This team knows the UK property market inside out. I have followed them and I have used them in more than one firm.'
‘Helen Mutucumarana and Becky Woodcock have a depth and breadth of knowledge second to none. They are also proactive, responsive and a pleasure to deal with.’
‘This is an excellent team. Very knowledgeable and professional. Excellent advice. Easy to contact and work with.’
‘Helen Mutucumarana and Becky Woodcock are exceptional. Very easy to work. They make my job easier.’
‘Ceri Riddell is our primary point of contact and offers excellent legal support principally related to landlord and tenant matters. We value her services very highly.’
Key clients
- Babraham Research Campus Limited
- Garden Campus Limited
- Insmed Innovation UK Limited
- Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst
- Hill Residential Ltd
- TWI Limited
- Cambridge Investment Partnership
- Oxbridge Colleges
- The Chesterford Group (including Joy Brands as franchisee of Pret)
- Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution and the Buxton Family
Work highlights
Acting on behalf of Cambridge Investment Partnership in connection with acquisition of part of a site known as Eddeva Park from This Land (a Cambridgeshire County Council owned development vehicle), for which planning was obtained for 150 new homes, including 40 per cent affordable homes.
Assisting film and television production studio, Garden Campus, on its acquisition and development of leasehold and freehold sites in Park Royal, London.
Acting on behalf of leading biotech company, Insmed Innovation UK, on their occupation and bespoke fitting out of premium laboratory and office space at a world-class research campus.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
James Simpson
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Helen Mutucumarana; James Simpson
Other key lawyers
Ceri Riddell; Becky Woodcock