Freeths LLP supports rail leasing, public sector transport, and infrastructure companies with the financing and leasing of new rolling stock. The practice is led by Tom Johnson, who has particular experience in rolling stock procurement, leasing, maintenance, franchising, and financing, and Michael Bray, who focuses on development and regeneration schemes, particularly those involving transport hubs.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Pro-active and highly knowledgeable team, able to take a commercial view when required.'
- 'Tom Johnson is a long-standing, highly respected lawyer: easy to deal with and always gives clear advice.'
- 'Freeths is growing as an excellent force in the rail sector. They have a wide range of support services and are flexible and nimble when it comes to meeting clients needs.'
- 'Tom Johnson stands out as an individual with a wealth of experience in the rail industry.'
- Tom Johnson has been working on rail transactions for 30+ years and is able to deliver practical advice and helpful insight where needed.'
- 'Tom Johnson is a valuable support when the going gets tough and is focused on closing out a deal in a timely and efficient manner.'
- 'Tom Johnson is a trusted and experienced provider of asset finance related legal services.'
- 'Freeths LLP is developing a strong railway orientated team.'
Key clients
- Porterbrook
- GB Railfreight
- Hitachi Rail Limited
- Stadler Rail
- HS1
- Various Local Authorities and Transport bodies
- Crown Commercial Services Ltd.
- Walsall Council
- Travis Perkins Group Plc
Work highlights
Advised Porterbrook on the financing, leasing and maintenance of a fleet of 10 new rail tri-mode rolling stock assets to be manufactured by Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles S.A, financed by Porterbrook and leased to London North Eastern Railway Limited.
Advising rolling stock manufacturer Hitachi Rail on multiple updates to the contracts which relate to the InterCity Express Programme (IEP).
Advising Porterbrook on the acquisition and disposal of leasehold interests at a regulated / operational rail depot, providing finance to West Midlands Trains for significant redevelopment works at Bletchley Light Maintenance Depot.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Practice head
Tom Johnson; Michael Bray
Other key lawyers
Iain Bowler