Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner‘s rail finance and leasing practice advises on the full asset lifecycle, from funding and procurement through to operation, maintenance and disposal. The team is a long‑standing adviser to Angel Trains and Beacon Rail and is currently acting on rolling‑stock leases for open‑access services, as well as supporting clients’ expansion into continental European leasing platforms. Beyond financing matters, real estate and infrastructure projects remain an important feature of the practice, advising major airports on rail‑related projects and continuing to act for Lendlease on the £5.8 billion Euston Station HS2 redevelopment. Practice head Russell Clifford leads the financing stream of the practice, and has acted for banks, lessors, investors, operators, manufacturers, vendors, and purchasers on transactions involving all types of asset classes and a diverse range of financing products and structures. Jason Chamberlain leverages vast experience to act in some of the UK rail market’s most complex activities, while Jamie Wiseman-Clarke is noted for his work concerning rolling‑stock procurement. Deborah Boddy, recently seconded to Angel Trains, is highlighted for asset finance matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'They are the best in the market. They make things happen. They work as your partner.’

  • 'The rail team consistently delivers high-quality, commercially focused advice with a deep understanding of the sector. Their ability to navigate complex regulatory and transactional matters, combined with a practical and responsive approach, makes them a trusted and valued adviser. Their collaborative style and strategic insight have been instrumental in supporting our business objectives across a range of workstreams.'
  • 'Russell’s expertise in purchase agreements is outstanding—his grasp of complex legal and commercial issues, coupled with his ability to provide strategic, forward-thinking advice, is second to none. Jamie has provided exceptional support throughout our leasing work; his calm, assured manner and deep knowledge make him a brilliant adviser. Deborah is absolutely key to the team—her dedication, meticulous attention to detail, and tireless work ethic ensure consistently high-quality outcomes. Jason has also been a great support on our diversification workstream, providing thoughtful and commercially sound advice as we explore opportunities involving other asset types.'
  • 'Jason Chamberlain is a pleasure to deal with. He understands what we need and delivers exactly. He has enabled us to find ways to move forward with a project which had eluded us for several years. His work is commercial and practical and he understands his audience.'

Key clients

  • Angel Trains
  • Beacon Rail
  • Heathrow Airport
  • LendLease
  • Caledonian Rail Leasing
  • Alstom Transport

Work highlights

Advised Angel Trains on its procurement of 14 new five-car Hitachi Class 80x trainsets for lease to FirstGroup.
Advised Heathrow Airport on changes to Heathrow’s Network Code. The Code sets out the rules for establishing timetables and the scheduling of access to the Heathrow Spur railway infrastructure.
Advised Angel Trains on the financing of expansion works at Tyseley Depot in the West Midlands to accommodate a new fleet of Class 196 DMUs.

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.

Deborah Boddy

Practice head

Russell Clifford

Other key lawyers

Jason Chamberlain; Jamie Wiseman-Clarke; Deborah Boddy