With experience advising a range of public and private sector clients across the industry, the rail team at Addleshaw Goddard is well-equipped to handle a range of matters, including transactions and advisory work on procurement matters. Paul Hirst heads the team and offers experience handling matters of implementation, rolling stock procurement, and new rail schemes. Simon Gwynne offers the team a wealth of experience in asset finance and leasing matters, alongside rolling stock procurement. Rachel Scott offers the team a focus on rail matters, including rail reform, rail extension projects, and transformation projects. Carla Hancock, based in Leeds, has a focus on transport and infrastructure projects. Joseph Causer joined from Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP in June 2026.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency

Key clients

  • Agility Trains
  • VTG Rail UK Limited
  • Keolis UK
  • SMBC Bank
  • Department for Transport
  • High Speed Two (HS2) Limited
  • Greater London Authority
  • Transport for London
  • London Underground
  • West Yorkshire Combined Authority
  • West Midlands Combined Authority
  • Hitachi Rail Limited
  • MerseyTravel
  • HS1 Limited
  • Freightliner Heavy Haul Limited
  • Prologis Group Companies
  • DB Cargo
  • Transport for Greater Manchester
  • ScotRail Trains
  • Qatar Rail

Work highlights

Acting for Qatar Railways on three GCC wide rail schemes including Qatar to KSA high speed rail.
Acting for Agility Trains on the Intercity Express Programme, including implementation of the Velocity Timetable.
Acting for TfGM on its Rail Integration and Reform project to integrate rail into its "Bee Network", including advice on rail reform.

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.

Simon Gwynne
Simon Gwynne
Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Rachel Scott
Rachel Scott
Jason Chamberlain
Jason Chamberlain
Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Joseph Causer
Joseph Causer
Carla Hancock
Carla Hancock
Practice head

Paul Hirst

Other key lawyers

Simon Gwynne; Rachel Scott; Carla Hancock; Joseph Causer