Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP is widely recognised for its expertise in parliamentary and infrastructure consenting, advising on all aspects of the legislative and statutory approvals process. The team has particular strength in hybrid and private bills, as well as DCOs, TWAOs and Harbour Orders. Known for its role in promoting the HS2 railway project, the practice combines legal and strategic insight in supporting major infrastructure schemes. James O’Connor, a partner and Parliamentary Agent, leads on advising infrastructure stakeholders through the consenting and implementation phases. Stephen Collings focuses on coordinating DCO and TWA projects and developing commercial strategies to secure statutory powers. Juliet Clark plays a key role in promoting transport infrastructure projects. The team’s capabilities have been further enhanced by the addition of Robert Gowing, reinforcing its strength in navigating complex legislative processes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Juliet Clark, a legal director at Eversheds Sutherland, has been instrumental in supporting Anglo American’s interests, particularly in negotiating side agreements related to third-party DCOs. We consistently rely on her expertise in this area, and her ability to navigate complex negotiations has delivered excellent results.'

  • ‘Leading knowledge and expertise.’

  • ‘Extremely reliable and excellent judgement.’

  • 'Juliet is an outstanding negotiator—strategic, composed, and highly effective in securing outcomes that protect and advance our project objectives. I would confidently recommend her for any project development work where there are conflicts of interest involving DCOs. Her insight and professionalism make her a trusted and valued advisor.'

  • 'Intimate understanding of our legal structure.'
  • 'Always approachable and responsive offering invaluable advice on complex matters.'
  • 'The Infrastructure (Parliamentary) Team at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP supports Anglo American in all matters related to our Development Consent Order (DCO) and third-party interfaces that may impact our land interests and project development. The team's expertise is invaluable to us—they consistently deliver innovative solutions that lead to successful outcomes.'

Key clients

  • Department for Transport
  • Network Rail Infrastructure Limited
  • Stena Ports Limited
  • PD Teesport Limited
  • Blyth Harbour Commissioners
  • HS2 Limited
  • Transport for London
  • Associated British Ports
  • RWE Renewables
  • Transport for Wales

Work highlights

Advising Network Rail on the delivery of the Transpennine Route Upgrade (including the promotion of two TWA Orders) which is a major, multi-billion-pound programme of railway improvements which will bring better journeys to passengers travelling across the Pennines between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York.
Advising DfT on the delivery of the High Speed Rail project including the promotion and securing of 2 hybrid bills. Currently advising DfT on the development of a third hybrid bill to deliver the first phase of Northern Powerhouse rail between Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds.
Advising Stena Line Ports Limited on the promotion of a Harbour Revision Order to provide modernised harbour facilities at Fishguard Harbour to improve the operation of Stena Line’s twice daily Ro Ro ferry service from Fishguard Harbour to Rosslare, County Wexford in the Republic of Ireland.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame

The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Jessica Craven

Practice head

James O’Connor; Stephen Collings

Other key lawyers

Juliet Clark; Robert Gowing