The growing environmental practice at Freeths LLP advises housebuilders and property developers, conservation clients and water suppliers on environmental assessments, planning matters and environmental regulations, including those related to Brexit and the recent biodiversity net gain developments. The team is jointly led by Sheffield-based Penny Simpson, who has extensive experience in natural environment law and natural capital law, and Leeds-based Alison Ogley, who advises across the full suite of environmental regulations and is frequently involved in advocacy work. Further key team members based in Leeds are Emma Conwell, who joined the firm in March 2023 and Katie Le Boutillier, who joined in February 2024, both from Walker Morris LLP; both are well versed in environmental due diligence related to transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Penny Simpson combines authority in the field with a very frank and straightforward manner. A great combination when it comes to getting things done.’
‘We use Freeths specifically for advice in respect of environmental law. They have carved a niche that no others we know of can rival. They are our 'go to'. They provide bespoke, commercial and proactive advice.'
‘Penny Simpson is approachable, omnipresent and fun to work with. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of environmental law and can apply it to specific situations with ease.’
‘Every team member at Freeths is friendly and approachable, they work in an impressive professional manner and it is not a surprise to see how their team dynamic results in successful outcomes.’
‘Alison Ogley (Partner) at Freeth's has been an excellent individual to work with. During the tendering process Alison made me feel completely at ease. She is extremely professional, and I am in awe at her project management conduct and how she has dedicated herself.’
‘Alison Ogley has so much time and understanding when discussing issues.’
‘Expertise in nature conservation and habitats.’
‘Practical and intelligible advice regards negotiating the most difficult of issues regards European Protected Species matters.’
Key clients
- CCSF Defence Infrastructure Organisation (MoD) ,Part of the Ministry of Defence (MOD)
- Shropshire Council
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Penny Simpson; Alison Ogley
Other key lawyers
Emma Conwell; Katie Le Boutillier