Jointly led by Ailsa Ritchie and the ‘extremely knowledgeable’ Mark McMurray in Glasgow, the team at CMS routinely advises on subsidy control issues, transport improvement projects, and school extensions. Described by clients as an ’excellent source of knowledge’ on public sector issues, Ritchie leverages her longstanding experience in advising on major projects and public procurement to assist local councils. McMurray is an expert in flood protection projects and compulsory purchase issues, with a strong focus on regeneration development projects.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘They are a very large firm and can bring experience and resources to bear on the most complex and large-scale projects. ’

  • ‘Ailsa Ritchie is particularly helpful. Ailsa is an excellent source of knowledge on public sector matters. Mark McMurray is also excellent on planning matters. Roland Smyth is a notable expert in the hospitality market.’

  • ‘Good quality of work.’

  • ‘Ailsa Ritchie is excellent at understanding what it is you need and providing a high-quality product. Ailsa is client-focused and very responsive to emails. Mark McMurray is extremely knowledgeable in his area and gives sound, pragmatic advice. Mark is excellent at responding to queries.’

Key clients

  • Falkirk Council
  • Dumfries & Galloway Council
  • East Renfrewshire Council
  • Moray Council
  • City of Edinburgh Council
  • South Lanarkshire
  • Renfrewshire Council
  • East Dunbartonshire Council
  • Glasgow City Council
  • Lothian Pension Fund
  • Dumfries & Galloway Council
  • Improvement Service Scotland

Work highlights

Advising Falkirk Council on the Grangemouth Flood Protection Scheme.
Advising Dumfries and Galloway Council on the Borderlands Growth Deal.
Advising East Dunbartonshire Council concerning its Affordable Housing Programme for the construction of over 3000 new homes.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

Ailsa Ritchie; Mark McMurray

Other key lawyers

Roland Smyth; Keith Campbell