Matthew Hanslip Ward leads the dedicated practice at Dentons, which covers all aspects of the rail industry. Areas of expertise include advising on franchises and concessions, as well as projects and infrastructure. It also plays a leading role in advising on regulation and reform. The first-class team remains busy advising on a whole host of other areas, such as major acquisitions in the rail sector. The group has considerable rolling stock experience, and frequently advises on passenger and freight operations. The London team continues to be involved in several high-profile rail projects around the world. Martin Watt has particular expertise in rolling stock. Jonathan Smith specialises in franchising and concessions, in addition to rolling stock, commercial contracts and regulation. Christopher McGee-Osborne is another key contact who has a wealth of experience in the rail and transport sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘I've been consistently impressed by Dentons' knowledge and expertise. They are also prompt to respond to enquiries and forward leaning.’
‘Deep, longstanding industry knowledge. Matthew Hanslip Ward - expert in his field, very specialist. Jonathan Smith - very impressive, committed and responsive.’
‘Terrific industry knowledge and insight, coupled with a very practical and "hands on" approach for getting to grips with complex projects. Matthew Hanslip Ward, Jonathan Smith.’
‘Wide range of experience and knowledge across the industry. Open and direct approach. Dentons are part of the team.’
‘Martin Watt is patient, calm and client focused. We greatly appreciate his knowledge and expertise, but in addition his challenge, honesty, directness and good humour means he is "one of the team".’
‘Exceptional industry knowledge and pragmatic approach to dealing with complicated issues.'
'Matthew Hanslip Ward and Jonathan Smith always provide robust challenge, excellent insights and work through complicated legal issues by engaging stakeholders.’
‘Dentons bring deep insight to both the sector and technical issues I have worked with them on. The teams provided clear and concise advice that is focused on the topic under consideration. In the rail/infrastructure sector, Dentons are ahead of other firms I have used.’
Key clients
- MTR Corporation
- Deutsche Bahn
- Arriva
- Virgin
- Stagecoach
- Network Rail Infrastructure Limited
- Alstom
- Transport for London
- Mitsui
- Rail Delivery Group
Work highlights
- Continuing to work on the £18bn+ Crossrail Elizabeth Line concession, still the biggest of its kind.
- Working on the £3bn rolling stock InterCity Express Programme for the Department for Transport.
- Working for East West Rail, on the new c.£5bn railway to be constructed between Cambridge and Oxford (and beyond), representing a strategic new rail connection and the largest of its kind in the market, second only to HS2.
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.
Matthew Hanslip Ward
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Matthew Hanslip Ward
Other key lawyers
Jonathan Smith; Martin Watt; Christopher McGee-Osborne