Ashfords LLP continues to stand out for its vibrant practice covering the full gamut of energy and projects, with waste and resources, water, and clean energy, as well as decarbonisation and sustainability, remaining central areas of expertise for the practice. The firm is also noted for its ports and harbour works, where it advises clients on regulatory matters, infrastructure, and energy projects. Practice head Brian Farrell specialises in energy generation and waste resource matters, while Carl Thompson is particularly experienced in the construction space. Projects surrounding energy efficiency and carbon saving are regularly handled by Jonathan Croley, who is also active in matters relating to anaerobic digestion. Water, energy, and waste are key sectors covered by Mark Manning.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Across the sector we work in, we are constantly faced with legal questions across land, planning, environmental permitting feedstock agreements and construction contracts. The multidisciplinary team at Ashfords work closely to ensure all areas are covered.'
‘Jonathan Croley has an industry leading, in-depth knowledge of how the renewables sector functions and is well placed to coordinate multidisciplinary teams to successful outcomes.’
‘Carl Thompson is very bright and a pleasure to work with; nothing is too much trouble. Kim Hawkins has a can-do attitude and is very commercially astute.’
‘The team has a lot of sector experience and as a client you get a lot of exposure to senior-level partners.’
‘Brian Farrell has a great level of sector knowledge and experience, as well as commercial negotiation skills and acumen.’
‘Commercial, dynamic and progressive. The team is adept at identifying what is really important to their clients and driving towards those objectives at speed. The ability to maintain momentum is a key asset from the client's perspective and the Ashfords team demonstrates it in spades.’
‘Brian Farrell is the standout leader of the pack. His commercial mindset, dogged determination and legal skill make him a formidable partner on any matter.’
‘Carl Thompson is an expert in O&Ms and commercial contracts. He can be relied upon to find solutions and advise in non-legalese and in a way that the business guys can understand quickly. He grasps issues quickly and is very smart and experienced.’
Key clients
- Island Green Power
- PLP Property
- RWE Renewables UK
- Biowise
- Wase Limited
- Viridor
- Encyclis
- Suez Waste
- Recresco
- Bioenergy Infrastructure Group
Work highlights
- Acted for Pennon Group plc on the commercial aspects of the acquisition of Sutton and East Surrey Water for £89m.
- Advised Fernbrook Bio Limited on expansion and upgrade works to its anaerobic digestion plant in Kettering.
- Advised Ingenious on the sale of its anaerobic digestion portfolio to Ancala.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Brian Farrell
Other key lawyers
Carl Thompson; Stephen Humphreys; Ian Manners; Emma Warren; Kim Hawkins; Jonathan Croley; Mark Manning