Davitt Jones Bould’s renowned property expertise consistently attracts local and central government clients for their most significant and complex projects. Team head Madeleine Davitt acts as lead adviser to some of the UK’s most prominent government landowners. Stephen Chalcraft is a recognised authority on real estate matters in the higher education, local authority and housing sectors. Nichola Gray offers wide-ranging expertise covering freehold and leasehold acquisitions and disposals, development, due diligence, and landlord and tenant matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘DJB consistently delivers an exceptional, client-focused service across a wide range of property and infrastructure matters. Their team is professional, approachable and commercially minded, offering practical advice with clarity and precision.'
- ‘We’ve instructed DJB on hundreds of property acquisitions—ranging from single flats to complex multi-unit schemes—and they’ve proved efficient, responsive and proactive throughout. They communicate clearly and regularly, whether through monthly updates or swift replies to ad-hoc queries.'
- ‘Several individuals have stood out for their expertise and dedication. Nichola Gray is exceptional—thorough, proactive and collaborative, with a calm command of even the most complex and urgent cases.'
- ‘Zaheer Bashir brings deep knowledge of compulsory acquisition and DCO-related matters. He communicates clearly with lay clients and is unwavering in pursuing outcomes through often intricate processes.'
- 'Sean Gardner is a consistent and reassuring presence, trusted by our whole team for his responsiveness, problem-solving approach, and collaborative attitude.’
- ‘DJB is a trusted legal partner who doesn’t just provide options—they provide clear recommendations. Their teams are approachable, their advice is pragmatic, and their attention to detail and client care are second to none.'
Key clients
- National Highways
- University of Central Lancashire
- Health and Safety Executive
- Xtrafit Holdings
- The Royal Parks
- Sandyford Properties
- A Place Called Common
- Morells Woodfinishes
- Optical Center
- Primary Health Properties
- Wiltshire Council
- Smiggle
Work highlights
Advised National Highways on the full spectrum of commercial property matters that arose out of their £157bn estate.
Advised the University of Central Lancashire on the development of their new four-storey veterinary school.
Advised Sandyford Properties on the acquisition of Astmoor and Fenton Industrial estates.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Madeleine Davitt
Other key lawyers
Stephen Chalcraft; Richard Holmes; Abigail Kay; Nichola Gray; Zaheer Bashir