Praised for its ‘clear understanding of complex matters’ across the construction industry, Macfarlanes LLP acts for an array of developers, PFI investors, and manufacturers. Noted for its prowess in cladding disputes, the team is active across the healthcare, energy, and commercial and residential real estate sectors. Doug Wass leads the practice and is well-placed to advise on high value, complex disputes arising out of PFI projects. Mark Lawrence’s litigation expertise sees him regularly instructed in cases before the High Court and Court of Appeal, while Andy Mather is active across the commercial real estate sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Genuinely outstanding. What sets them apart is their ability to combine deep legal expertise with a practical, commercial understanding of how PFI projects operate in the real world. They don't just advise—they add value.'
‘Working with Mark Lawrence on our PFI assets has been a standout experience. His ability to navigate complex disputes—particularly around payment mechanisms, lifecycle issues, and construction defects, is exceptional. Mark consistently delivers clear, strategic advice that balances legal precision with commercial practicality.'
‘I found the Macfarlanes team to be professional, responsive and highly capable. They have a clear understanding of complex legal matters in our industry and are solution focused with the ability to be able to translate to someone who does not have a legal background.’
‘Experienced team, capable of handling complex matters. Collaborative and courteous to deal with. Provides clear, well-reasoned advice to clients and clear instructions to experts.’
‘The knowledge and experience Macfarlanes brings to the advice is excellent and means that they can provide accurate and succinct advice across all of their team members.’
‘The construction team at Macfarlanes is of the highest quality. The team has strength from top to bottom. They are instructed in very high profile cases of great complexity. I cannot recommend them enough.’
Key clients
- Brookfield
- Cardinia Real Estate UK Limited
- Catalyst Healthcare (Romford) Limited
- European Land
- Finchatton
- Grove Developments Limited
- Global Switch
- GSY Hospitality Limited
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ Foundation
- Healthcare Support (North Staffs) Limited
- InfraRed Capital Partners
- Lancashire Schools SPC Phase 1 Ltd
Work highlights
Advising 4 Project Cos on various claims arising out of defective design and construction work carried out in relation to the provision of additional accommodation at a number of schools in Lancashire under the Building Schools for the Future PFI project.
Advising Sir Robert McAlpine Limited on a substantial claim being made against it in court proceedings by Bristol Alliance Limited Partnership relating to the allegedly defective design and construction of cladding in respect of the development of an 18-storey mixed use building at Cabot Circus, Bristol.
Acted for Global Switch in this long running and high stakes claim against a building contractor about the redevelopment and upgrade of a cutting-edge data centre in London – which included six adjudications, adjudication enforcement in the High Court and the Court of Appeal, and final account litigation in the High Court.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Doug Wass
Other key lawyers
Mark Lawrence; Andy Mather