DESIGNATED AREAS
Designated areas, such as conservation zones or protected land, involve complex property and planning restrictions. We advise councils, developers, and investors on navigating these legal and regulatory requirements, ensuring projects comply with the rules while maximising opportunities within these areas.
Examples of work undertaken by our lawyers
Advised on hundreds of matters relating to SSSI's for Natural England including issues relating to planning agreements, licences, litigation, adverse possession claims, land registry issues and more.
Advised on multiple Local and National Nature Reserves.
Key advisors for land and property of significant historical and heritage value.
Advised a National Park Authority on the prosecution of a developer for illegal modifications made to a Grade II listed building.
Advised a National Park Authority on the Planning requirements for a potential development on Park land.
Advised a Government body on subsoil leases at a National Nature Reserve.
Legal issues that may arise
Claims relating to the damage or mistreatment of designated land.
Advice relating to whether land does or does not meet the standards for designated area status.
Leases and licences of designated land.
Advice relating to rewilding schemes on designated land.
Title investigation and review of designated land.
Drafting or reviewing planning agreements relating to designated areas.
Claims of adverse possession relating to designated land.
THE LEADING UK REAL ESTATE LAW FIRM
We are the UK’s largest and most experienced specialist real estate law firm, trusted by leading clients in the property sector for over 25 years.
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With over 75+ senior lawyers, each bringing an average of 25 years’ post-qualification experience from top-tier private practice and in-house roles, we offer unparalleled expertise across the full range of real estate legal services — including commercial property, planning, construction, environment, real estate finance, property litigation, and more.
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Our exclusive focus on real estate law uniquely positions us to support fellow professional services firms through our Real Estate Support solution. We deliver specialist legal expertise to the UK Top 30, silver circle firms, US Top 50, and the Big Four.
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Whether you’re a developer, investor, occupier, institution, or advisor, we provide clear, commercial, and responsive legal advice — helping you to get the job done.