Burges Salmon LLP offers a standout practice with notable expertise at the intersection of environmental and real estate law. The team regularly advises on contamination, land remediation, permitting, and environmental risk management within high-value property transactions, infrastructure developments, and regeneration projects. The firm’s work supports clients in navigating regulatory obligations, mitigating environmental liabilities, and meeting sustainability targets. Michael Barlow leads the team and is widely recognised for his work advising real estate and infrastructure clients on environmental strategy, regulation, and litigation. Sarah Sackville Hamilton brings considerable experience in permitting mandates, particularly in helping clients manage environmental risks during development. Ian Salter is a key figure in nuclear-related real estate and infrastructure matters, advising on regulatory and transactional issues. Ross Fairley, Victoria Barnes and Gabi Gershuny are further key contacts.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Excellent team at all levels with a wealth of experience.’
‘First-rate client service - always punctual and reliable.’
‘Efficient and dedicated team.’
‘A market-leading environmental law team - no question.’
‘Michael Barlow knows environmental law like the back of his hand.’
'Michael Barlow is an experienced and highly capable litigator.'
Key clients
- FirstGroup
- Canal and River Trust
- Severn Trent Water
- John Lewis
- Radnor Hills Mineral Water Company Ltd
- ENGIE
- Affinity Water
- Pennon plc
- Virgin Management Limited
Work highlights
Advising a sport equipment manufacturer of a global brand in an appeal to a statutory nuisance abatement notice that was served on the company by a local authority.
Advising a leading organisation in relation to the UK’s first geological disposal facility for radioactive waste.
Advising Radnor Hills Mineral Water Company on a successful appeal of an abstraction licence which involved issues with Habitats Regulation assessments, evidence and strategy.
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.
Ian Salter
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Michael Barlow
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Sarah Sackville Hamilton
Practice head
Michael Barlow
Other key lawyers
Ross Fairley; Ian Salter; Sarah Sackville Hamilton; Victoria Barnes; Gabi Gershuny