Muckle LLP continues to cement its reputation as a key player in the North East and Cumbria commercial property markets, advising a broad mix of regional and national clients. The firm is particularly noted for its work on development, investment, and occupier-related matters. Head of real estate Gail Bennett has notable transactional expertise, and Jonathan Combe is a go-to adviser on complex development schemes, coordinating across legal disciplines. Will McKay is well regarded for his role in high-density and forward-funded developments, particularly in the PBSA and PRS sectors. Libbie Henderson brings niche expertise in land-based energy and minerals projects, while Deborah Lazenby handles portfolio management issues and lending transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Gail Bennett is impressively responsive and gives very practical commercial advice.’
‘They take a client-centred approach that is really refreshing, taking the time to get to know the ins and outs of our business to be able to properly cater any advice.’
‘Will McKay is our main contact and always goes above and beyond to make sure that we get the right advice at the right time.'
‘Muckle provides a genuinely personalised partner-led approach, as this allows them to identify and move to the heart of the issues more quickly; using their associates, solicitors, and paralegals to support delivery.'
- 'Muckle has the depth and breadth to cover every area of real estate law. They combine real depth of knowledge with a personal touch.’
‘We have worked with Muckle for many years, and they really understand our business, and this is of real value in getting transactions to move forward. We highly rate Will McKay for his responsiveness. The team is always transparent in delivering and managing expectations appropriately.'
Key clients
- MRP Land
- Vertu Motors
- The Football Foundation
- Sport England
- Kans and Kandy
- Home Group
- Persimmon Homes
- Newcastle College Group
- Mandale Group
- Kitwave
- Hays Travel
- Gentoo Group
Work highlights
Acted for the National Football Trust (a joint venture between the Premier League, The FA and the Government’s Football Foundation) on the development of a new £11.9m community Hub at the Racecourse Playing Fields in Derby.
Acted for MRP Land on its refinancing, operational lease and management agreement at practical completion of its latest purpose-built student residential project.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Deborah Lazenby
Practice head
Gail Bennett
Other key lawyers
Jonathan Combe; Will McKay; Libbie Henderson; Deborah Lazenby; Richard Nixon; Beth Thompson