Macfarlanes LLP‘s team acts for clients in construction disputes involving delay and disruption, design and construction defects, contract termination, and professional negligence. The team is well-versed in handling disputes in the hospitality, commercial, and residential sectors, and is praised for its ’depth of understanding of construction law’, alongside its ‘commercial insight’. Doug Wass leads the practice and has experience advising on PFI project disputes and the defective design and construction of cladding. Mark Lawrence further strengthens the team, and has expertise acting on domestic and international construction disputes, and strong knowledge of redevelopment projects. In 2025, Andy Mather retired from the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The team is particularly versed in complex, high-value, and technically demanding disputes arising from major real estate, infrastructure, energy, data center, PFI/PPP projects, and building safety and cladding claims. Strengths include direct partner involvement and lean teams.
- Mark Lawrence is well known for representing clients in high-profile TCC claims and also PFI projects. Doug Wass is widely regarded as one of the leading construction disputes practitioners in the London market.
- The practice stands out for the quality and consistency of its advice, particularly on complex matters. The team combines strong technical expertise with a clear understanding of commercial priorities. A notable strength is their calmness under pressure. In fast-moving situations, they remain measured and composed, which helps to bring clarity and direction when it is most needed.
- Mark Lawrence is highly experienced in handling complex disputes. He draws on counsel and expert advisors to provide clear strategic direction, with a consistent focus on commercial outcomes. He is always a pleasure to work with.
- Mark Lawrence: Mark is a calm, collected, and extremely competent partner whose judgment I would always trust. Richard Alam: Richard is unflappable, on top of all aspects of a case, and a very able lawyer.
- A well-resourced and well-respected team, with excellent partners and senior associates.
Key clients
- Atlantic Projects Company
- Argan Inc
- Brookfield
- Cardinia Real Estate UK Limited
- Catalyst Healthcare (Romford) Limited
- Enercret Installationen GMBH
- European Land
- Finchatton
- Grove Developments Limited
- Global Switch
- GSY Hospitality Limited
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ Foundation
Work highlights
Advising the client on four sets of multi-party High Court proceedings 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.
Acting for Atlantic Projects Company in the High Court in relation to a claim and counterclaim arising from the development of Kilroot power station.
Acting for Pinewood in relation to disputes about the redevelopment of Shepperton Studios, involving multiple disputes with the main contractor relating to significant delays, claims relating to design and variations and acceleration payments.
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