Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP’s rail practice boasts a strong track record in projects, continuing to act on flagship UK matters and complex regulatory mandates. The team advises London St Pancras High Speed (HS1) on operational, commercial, and regulatory matters, and continues to represent HS 2 Ltd on rolling‑stock procurement and other aspects of the major infrastructure project. John Williams is noted for long‑standing experience across rail infrastructure and operational contracts. Competition and regulatory partner Tim Briggs is active on market access and sector investigations, and Tom Marshall leads rolling‑stock and secondary‑market engagements, including for HS1 and HS2. Nusrat Zar handles contentious public law and procurement matters, with a track record that includes successful challenges and defences for train operators and public bodies. David Nitek also contributes to a robust contentious practice, regularly representing clients on disputes arising out of significant infrastructure projects.
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Key clients
- AIP
- Department for Transport/Crown Commercial Service
- High Speed Two (HS2)
- London St. Pancras Highspeed (formerly known as HS1 or High Speed 1)
- Ove Arup & Partners International
- Transport for London and London Underground
- The Go-Ahead Group
Work highlights
Advising High Speed Two in its successful defence of the procurement challenge brought by Siemens in relation to the decision by High Speed Two to acquire a fleet of high speed rolling stock from Hitachi-Alstom joint venture.
Advising Arup in connection with various investigations arising from the Stonehaven train derailment.
Advising London St. Pancras Highspeed on various regulatory and operational matters in relation to the High Speed 1 railway.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Other key lawyers
John Williams; Tim Briggs; Tom Marshall; Nusrat Zar; David Nitek