Ashfords LLP stands out for its involvement in numerous developments of national significance and NSIPs, particularly in Wales. The team is led by David Richardson, who specialises in compulsory purchase and compensation issues as well as residential development. Specialising in energy development, Stephen Humphreys advises on clean energy technologies and large-scale infrastructure matters, while contentious expert Gareth Pinwell is known for handling planning enforcement matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Good, professional and practical advice.’
‘Head of Planning David Richardson is a leading light in planning circles.’
‘Very professional and knowledgeable and user-friendly.’
‘Particularly impressed with David Richardson - with whom I do a lot of planning work. Very knowledgeable, client friendly, responsive and gets things done.’
‘Ashfords' Planning team has been supporting our business across a number of energy park projects. The team has also demonstrated strength in efficiently addressing bespoke questions, providing clear, practical, and reliable advice. Their responsiveness and depth of knowledge make them a valuable asset to our projects.’
‘Stephen Humphreys is delightful to work with and he always picks up the phone when I call, is consistently helpful, follows through promptly with actions, and clearly has substantial experience and expertise.’
Key clients
- Crest Nicholson
- Homes England
- Devon County Council
- Voltalia UK Limited
- London Borough of Wandsworth
- Dorset Council
- 3West
- M7 Planning/Rubix
- London Borough of Bromley
- Wessex Water
- Vistry Homes
- Summerfield Homes
Work highlights
Advising Tim Hawkins Ltd on the establishment of a significant habitat bank via a conservation covenant to sell units of biodiversity gain to the market, allowing developers to satisfy mandatory biodiversity net gain requirements.
Advising Devon County Council on the section 106 agreements required for the Cranbrook new town expansion areas near Exeter, which together will provide circa 4000 new homes and related community facilities, employment land, school provision and infrastructure.
Advising Elmya RPC on its application for a development consent order for its first nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP) in England, a 200mw solar farm and battery storage project.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
David Richardson
Other key lawyers
Stephen Humphreys; Gareth Pinwell