Clarke Willmott LLP‘s planning team is noted for advising on a range of issues related to residential developments. Leading the team, Caroline Waller advises a client roster of developers and local planning authorities in relation to the negotiation and preparation of planning and highways agreements. Chris Charlton focuses his practice on representing clients before planning committees, magistrates’ courts, and inquiries, and advises on issues related to mixed-use development projects as well as complex planning and highways agreements. The ’dedicated and knowledgeable‘ Jade Lyus is recommended for handling various credit schemes, including phosphate and nutrient.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Clarke Wilmott's planning team provides an exceptional level of service, with an ability to combine technical legal advice with practical commercial guidance that demonstrates a deep understanding of how housebuilders operate.’
‘Caroline Waller combines exceptional technical knowledge with commercial astuteness, effortlessly grasping the wider context and implications, offering quick, clear and strong tailored advice, proactively providing added detail and looking for solutions.'
- 'Jade Lyus is especially dedicated, knowledgeable and diligent. Offering clear, robust, honest and pragmatic legal advice, she is kind, highly capable and always thinking ahead to anticipate any future problems that may arise. Jade is extremely responsive to client needs and truly focused on ‘you’, treating my work with genuine care and urgency.’
‘I have worked with Clarke Willmott for many years, and their expertise in planning law, particularly in managing Section 106 agreements, is exceptional. The firm consistently provides clear, practical solutions and collaborates closely with us and local authorities to ensure commercially sound and expedient outcomes.’
‘The individuals I work with at Clarke Willmott stand out due to their deep expertise, practical approach, and commitment to delivering tailored solutions. Chris Charlton, in particular. His in-depth knowledge of planning law, especially Section 106 agreements and his ability to navigate complex issues with clarity set him apart. What differentiates him from competitors is his strategic thinking and his proactive communication, which ensures smooth collaboration and successful outcomes. I’ve valued Chris’s approachability, attention to detail and his ability to simplify complex legal matters, making him an invaluable partner in achieving our objectives.’
‘An excellent practice employing specialists that excel in matters relating to planning.’
Key clients
- Clinton Devon Estates
- WCI Ltd
- Strongvox Ltd
- Ashbourne Leisure Management Ltd
- Persimmon Homes Ltd and Primegate Properties (Kingsdown) Ltd
- R J Rew & Sons
- Green Agri Land Ltd
- Biogains Ltd
- Redwood (South West) Limited
- S. Notaro Ltd
Work highlights
Acting for Persimmon Homes Ltd and Primegate Properties (Kingsdown) Ltd in connection with a complex s106 agreement for the construction of 1,500 dwellings, including advising on viability issues, the inclusion of Council-owned land, large-scale BNG mitigation, Habitats Regulation issues, major highways infrastructure, affordable housing and contributions.
Acting for CG Fry in connection with a nationally important legal challenge regarding the application of the concept of nutrient neutrality pursuant to the Habitats Regulations to the discharge of pre-commencement conditions when the subject of the conditions has no bearing on the generation or discharge of nutrients from the development. A legal challenge has been lodged and permission has now been granted for the appeal to be heard in the Supreme Court.
Providing planning advice to S. Notaro Ltd relating to an application for a business park (Use Classes B1, B2 and B3) and the creation of a new Motorway Service Area at J24 of the M5 Motorway.
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
Caroline Waller
Other key lawyers
Chris Charlton; Jade Lyus