With a strong presence in the social housing market, Trowers & Hamlins LLP has an experienced team representing housing associations in the full range of issues, including mergers, joint ventures, regeneration projects, acquisitions and homelessness. The department is led by real estate expert Suzanne Benson. Sara Bailey specialises in real estate projects and advises on regeneration projects and partnerships, while Amy Shaw acts for a broad range of clients, including registered providers and local authorities, in real estate joint ventures. Scott Dorling has experience in local government and public sector matters, and Rob Beiley focuses on mergers and restructures. Sharron Webster heads the governance team and is a key member of the housing team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Unmatched expertise and a collaborative style make our joint client work effective and enjoyable.’

  • 'Rob Beiley is an excellent problem solver who goes beyond legal advice to help his clients arrive at practical, implementable and commercially viable solutions.’

  • ‘The team is well coordinated, bringing in expertise from different specialists as required, with the lead partner maintaining oversight throughout.’

  • ‘Amy Shaw is well-informed and chooses the right moments to get involved.’

  • ‘Trowers & Hamlins places importance on building long-term relationships with clients. The team includes specialists in niche areas and they are experts in dealing with complex matters.’

  • ‘The open approach that Amy Shaw brings to each transaction is refreshing. Always seeking a solution rather than sticking to a tried and tested solution whilst protecting the client is welcomed.’

Key clients

  • MTD (the FPRP in the William Pears Group)
  • Thriving Investments
  • Grosvenor Hart Homes
  • Curo
  • Sparrow Shared Ownership (FPRP of Universities Superannuation Scheme)
  • Simply Affordable Homes
  • Rentplus Homes
  • Quartz Housing (FPRP owned by Civitas Investment Management)
  • Hyde Group
  • Church of England -Diocese of Gloucester
  • Wychavon Consortium of Registered Providers
  • Southern Housing

Work highlights

Acting for Thriving Investments, a FCA-regulated fund manager owned by Places for People, in relation to the acquisition of Rosewood Housing Limited, a For Profit Registered Provider from the administrators of Inland Homes plc.
Advised Legal & General Affordable Homes Limited, the affordable housing subsidiary of Legal & General Group, in relation to an acquisition of 390 shared ownership units located across 32 local authorities from Orbit Group Limited and Orbit Housing Association for in excess of £30 million with a phased completion.
Advising Poplar HARCA on all aspects, including tax, relating to the formation of its JV with Eco-World/Wilmott Dixon in relation to the Aberfeldy Extension.

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.

Practice head

Suzanne Benson

Other key lawyers

Sara Bailey; Amy Shaw; Scott Dorling; Rob Beiley; Sharron Webster; Andy Barnard