Forsters LLP houses an experienced affordable housing team that advises registered providers on construction, regeneration, and housing development. Sara Branch heads the practice and advises housing providers on acquisition, development and disposal of large mixed-use sites. Jonathan Preece frequently advises clients on joint venture structures and planning and construction issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'A very well-rounded practice with deep knowledge across all aspects of social housing development and an ability to think both critically and creatively. Very responsive and proactive, excellent business acumen across the team.'
  • 'Sara Branch is one of the cleverest, most thorough, and most painstaking lawyers I've ever worked with. She spots problems a mile off and comes up with solutions that are both contractually sound and commercially sensible. Great to work with and an excellent solicitor.'
  • 'A superb team with excellent attention to detail and strong commercial awareness. Our go-to practice for the most challenging and complex transactions.'
  • 'Sara Branch and Jonathan Preece are both excellent lawyers, being responsive, accessible and very experienced.'

Key clients

  • Notting Hill Genesis
  • Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing Association
  • Preferred Homes
  • Soho Housing Association Limited
  • Hastoe Housing Association
  • Newlon Housing Trust
  • Kidbrooke Partnership LLP
  • Gallions 2A Developments LLP
  • Gallions 2B Development LLP
  • Armada 1 South Development LLP

Work highlights

Advised Notting Hill Developments Limited on the acquisition from Hounslow Council of the site of its old civic offices at Lampton Road and the development, in partnership with Bouygues and Hill Residential, of the site to provide 940 new homes (40% affordable).
Advised Notting Hill Genesis (NHG) on the acquisition of 3 sites, located next to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, owned by the London Legacy Development Corporation and the development of the sites as part of the Hackney Wick Central Masterplan to deliver 190 new homes, 100% Affordable Housing.
Acting for NHG on the acquisition from Greenwich Council of Woolwich Exchange and the redevelopment of the site through a joint venture vehicle set up with St Modwen.

Practice head

Sara Branch

Other key lawyers

Jonathan Preece