Well versed in the finance, procurement, development, construction and contentious aspects of complex, multi-faceted projects, Morton Fraser MacRoberts receives instructions from a range of public and private clients involving a multitude of different asset types; the group is notably ‘very strong in legacy PFI covering all the main sectors including education, waste water, highways, MoD and health issues’. Helming the practice is Rod Munro, who is widely lauded for his ’excellent technical skill set which he seamlessly combines with vast practical experience across multiple sectors’. Duncan Osler predominantly advises public bodies on a range of project finance and procurement mandates and is experienced in the transport and healthcare sectors. Jennifer McKay stands out for contentious PFI/PPP work and has recently been engaged in disputes arising out of defects, delays and performance issues regarding the completion and handback of hospital and school projects. Billy Kay joined the firm from Burness Paull LLP in February 2023, adding further finance capabilities.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The Projects and Construction team is one of the leading teams in Scotland in terms of extent and breadth of experience and also one of the largest.'
- 'Rod Munro is the principal contact for our business. Having worked with Rod for many years he remains one of the leading practitioners in Scotland for PFI/PPP. He has an excellent technical skill set which he seamlessly combines with vast practical experience across multiple sectors. Very good to work with and well respected and liked throughout the sector.'
- 'Rod Munro and his colleagues make a robust team, with a determination to get the best for their clients. Each team member has their own particular strengths which when brought together are a formidable force.'
- 'Having worked with Rod Munro on several projects now, I find him to be incredibly knowledgeable and experienced but also approachable. Rod is definitely someone you want on your team.'
- 'So far, our experience of working with this practice has been hugely positive. We are making good progress with the help of the team from Morton Fraser MacRoberts. The advice we have received has been crucial to the success of the project we are working on.'
- 'Rod Munro's communication, problem solving, attention to detail and efficiency while working with us on this project has been invaluable.'
- 'The individuals we deal with are knowledgeable about the topic matter, the industry as well as the detail of the "why" in an agreement and can help navigate very spicy issues to a suitable outcome for the parties - both commercially and financially, whilst keeping the participants relationships together in a constructive manner throughout.'
- 'Rod Munro has the strength of character and understanding of our business and the contracts we have entered into to be able to discuss and explain matters to us, speaking with candour and keeping expectations well managed and grounded in reality. His ability to cut to the key points in any disagreement and suggest a path through and out the other side are always very welcomed by us.'
Key clients
- The Scottish Government
- The Ministry of Defence
- NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde
- NHS Highland
- NHS Lanarkshire
- NHS Lothian
- NHS Tayside
- Glasgow City Council
- Police Scotland
- Scottish Prison Service
Work highlights
- Advised 3ED Glasgow Limited, the Project Company, on the Glasgow Schools PPP Project on multiple variations for the procurement, installation and construction of new facilities at various School sites.
- Advising SSE in relation to major elements of its Pathway to 2030 programme, including the procurement and installation of 1,000km of cable, both onshore and subsea, plus the construction of major Converter stations.
- Acting for NHS Lothian on both its multiple disputes with Consort Healthcare, the PFI company for the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh PFI Project, and its defect disputes with the Project Company running the adjoining Royal Hospital for Children & Young People and DCN NPD project.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Rod Munro
Other key lawyers
Duncan Osler; Jennifer McKay; Billy Kay