ENVIRONMENTALLY PROTECTED LAND
Environmentally protected land involves strict planning, regulatory, and property considerations, including conservation obligations and restricted development rights. We advise councils, developers, and investors on navigating these requirements to manage, develop, or acquire such land responsibly and in compliance with the law.
Examples of work undertaken by our lawyers
Property legal advisors to the Environment Agency, Natural England and the Forestry Commission.
Advised on the lease renewals for the commercial use of an area of Outstanding National Beauty.
Advised on the contamination of land by a water plant.
Took action against an developer who was redeveloping a protected building on behalf of a National Park Authority.
Legal issues that may arise
Identifying how developments will affect environmentally protected land.
Establishing ‘exceptional circumstances’ to develop on protected land.
Obtaining planning permission for development which may have an impact on the habitats of protected species.
Obtaining mitigation licences.
Defending or prosecuting claims of contamination on protected 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.