CMS is well-regarded for its assistance with renewable energy ventures, and advises local government bodies and handles real estate regeneration projects. Led by Mark McMurray and Robin Hutchison, the team excels at offering environmental advice, assisting with judicial reviews and promoting compulsory purchase orders. McMurray has experience with heritage planning and has a strong track record with flood protection schemes, while Hutchison regularly advocates in public inquiries and drafts consent orders. Kathryn Nolin has cross-border expertise, helping foreign authorities draft and develop renewable energy legislation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The team has deep understanding of both planning/environmental law and complex planning processes, makes them an invaluable adviser. The team operates with impressive efficiency and consistently delivers high-quality advice, even under demanding timelines.'
- 'Plaudits are due to Robin Hutchison, whose knowledge, experience and leadership has been instrumental in fostering such a high-performing, professional team. He sets the tone for excellence and has created an environment where both individual growth and team success are encouraged and celebrated.'
- 'The team were excellent collaborators, respecting all project team members and creating a positive and supportive team ethos and environment, as well as knowing the appropriate places to challenge information.'
- 'Robin Hutchinson provided a steady hand on really complex matters and decisions and Kathryn Nolin stood out with her passion and commitment as well as professionalism and honest, knowledgeable and approachable manner.'
- 'Mark McMurray is a very experienced practitioner in the planning field and also very knowledgeable on aspects of compulsory purchase.'
Key clients
- Bakkafrost Scotland Limited
- BP Exploration Operation Company Limited
- Brockwell Energy
- Copenhagen Offshore Partners
- EDF Energy
- EDF Renewables
- ENI / Versalis UK
- Equinor
- Flotation Energy
- Hargreaves Land
- Isle of Man Government
- Ithaca Energy
- Red Rock Power
- Renfrewshire Council
- ScottishPower Renewables
- SSE plc
- Stirling Council
- Tarmac Trading Limited
- Trump International Golf
- University of St Andrews
Work highlights
Continuing to advise SSE on all aspects of the planning and consenting of the Dogger Bank Zone.
Advising Nuveen Real Estate on all planning, compulsory purchase and roads matters for the £1bn redevelopment of the St James Quarter.
Advising on the Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm, which recently reached financial close for funding in excess of £3.5bn.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Robin Hutchison; Mark McMurray
Other key lawyers
Kathryn Nolin; Keith Campbell