CMS assembles a robust planning offering with considerable experience across renewable energy developments, urban regenerations, and infrastructure projects. Companies from both the public and private sector turn to the practice for its expertise representing clients in inquiries and advising on judicial reviews and statutory appeals. Robin Hutchison leads the team and has brought his energy specialism to bear on an array of wind farm and interconnector projects. Mark McMurray is highlighted for his know-how handling compulsory purchase orders, while Kathryn Nolin handles a steady stream of instructions from local authorities.
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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

Work highlights

Secured Development Consent Order (DCO), granted by the Secretary of State in December 2025 for the Morecambe Offshore Windfarm, for Copenhagen Offshore Partners.
Advising Falkirk Council on the Grangemouth Flood Protection Scheme, by far the largest flood defence project in Scotland and one of the biggest in the whole of the UK.
Lead legal advisor on planning matters to SSE, including on consenting of the Dogger Bank Zone, the world’s largest offshore wind farm.

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

Other key lawyers

Mark McMurray; Kathryn Nolin