Back to rankings
England - London • Real estate
2

Planning

Dentons logo

Dentons

More information
Advising on both government and developer projects, Dentons covers a wide array of matters related to compulsory purchase orders, infrastructure and regeneration projects, with a strong focus on urban extensions. Roy Pinnock, who spearheads the practice, focuses on large scale developments and regeneration schemes alongside strategic land promotions. Other key members of the team include Michele Vas, who advises on large scale energy and transport infrastructure, and Lucy McDonnell and Chris Robinson, who both manage compulsory purchase orders. Alongside them are Rachael Herbert, who is experienced in residential developments; Melanie Blanchard, with 20 years of public sector project experience, and Katie Scuoler, who focuses on Section 106 agreements.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Dentons team is known for combining deep technical expertise with a commercial, solutions-focused approach.'

  • 'Clients value the team’s responsiveness, clarity of advice, and ability to navigate complex legal issues with practical insight.'

  • 'The team works across a diverse client base — from blue-chip companies and public sector bodies to fast-growing enterprises - often advising on matters of strategic significance.'

  • ‘The individuals within the planning team are, quite simply, exceptional — each bringing a distinctive blend of legal acumen, commercial awareness and practical problem-solving to their work. Clients consistently highlight the team’s ability to anticipate issues before they arise and to deliver clear, strategic advice, even in the most complex scenarios.'

  • ‘Michele Vas is always an absolute delight to work with. Michele is always there to offer advice and guidance. Michele is utterly charming and professional and nothing is too much trouble for her.’

Key clients

  • Anschutz Sports Holdings Limited
  • Marks and Spencer plc
  • Sports Direct
  • Places for People Developments Limited
  • Sainsbury's Supermarkets Ltd
  • South Cambridgeshire District Council
  • Kier Ventures Limited
  • Taylor Wimpey UK Limited
  • Telereal Trillium
  • Tide Construction
  • Patrizia
  • Regal London

Work highlights

Planning permission granted and section 106 agreement completed in January 2025 for the 8,500 homes Gilston Park Estate development.
Advising on a new Section 106 Agreement, which also varies a previous agreement, for a 3,300+ dwelling scheme with schools, district and local centres, hotel, healthcare, leisure, employment, formal and informal open space including play facilities, associated infrastructure, and roads.
Advising the Planning Advisory Service and local authorities in respect of BNG opportunities, challenges and the BNG templates.

Lawyers

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.

Katie Scuoler

Practice head

Roy Pinnock

Other key lawyers

Michele Vas; Lucy McDonnell; Chris Robinson; Rachael Herbert; Katie Scuoler; Melanie Blanchard