Brodies LLP has ‘strength in depth’ in its planning practice, advising housebuilders, private clients and energy corporations alike. The team has expertise with mixed-use development applications, appealing refused planning permission applications and Section 75 agreements. Department head Neil Collar ’wrote the book on planning law’ and is particularly experienced in environmental impact assessments, contributing to his strong track record in the renewable energy sector. Elaine Farquharson-Black is known for her housebuilding expertise, while Karen Hamilton‘s broad practice encompasses local city councils and transportation companies. George Sismey-Durrant ’is a star in the making’, while Niall McLean leads the firm’s contentious planning offering.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team has strength in depth. It is reassuring to know that there is a broad range of expertise to call upon.’
- ‘Karen Hamilton is an exceptional lawyer. Her knowledge and commercial awareness gives us great confidence in her advice. She always makes herself available for urgent queries and keeps us up to date regarding the progress of ongoing matters.’
‘The team is always prepared to go the extra mile to give great advice. They have an open door policy and a positive attitude that gets results.’
‘Rolls Royce of Scottish planning agents.’
‘Elaine Farquharson-Black and George Sismey-Durrant are both outstanding at what they do. Positive, dogged and approachable.’
‘Elaine Farquharson-Black is the leader of the pack when it comes to Scottish planning work.'
'Neil Collar wrote the book on planning law and has great wisdom.'
'George Sismey-Durrant is a star in the making.’
'What impressed me was Brodies comprehensive resources. They provided expertise across planning, environment and local government, and did so in a proficient and co-ordinated manner.'
'Quiet professionalism. Nothing brash or flashy, just expertise, insight and competence from approachable, talented individuals.'
Key clients
- CALA
- Mowi Scotland Limited
- Glasgow Airport Limited
- Energiekontor
- Glasgow City Council
- Cooke Aquaculture
- Springfield Properties
- Bancon
- Persimmon
- Muir Homes
- Energy Transition Zone Limited
- CoCity Developments
Work highlights
Assisting Energiekontor with its case at an appeal hearing, responding to strenuous objections from the Ministry of Defence in relation to the proposed Little Hartfell wind farm, including complex issues about potential impact on the Eskdalemuir seismic array.
Advised the administrators of Stewart Milne Group on a successful appeal to Scottish Ministers against the refusal of planning permission for 175 homes and negotiated the terms of the legal agreement required to release the permission.
Instructed by North Lanarkshire Council to provide support on the promotion of a Compulsory Purchase Order to acquire land for a regeneration project to demolish 169 flats in order to redevelop 72 flats for affordable housing.
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.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Elaine Farquharson-Black
Karen Hamilton
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
George Sismey-Durrant
Practice head
Neil Collar; Elaine Farquharson-Black
Other key lawyers
Karen Hamilton; George Sismey-Durrant; Niall McLean