RIVER
Rivers involve complex property, planning, and environmental considerations, from ownership and access rights to conservation, maintenance, and redevelopment opportunities. We advise councils, navigation authorities, and investors on managing and developing river assets efficiently, sustainably, and in line with legal requirements.
Examples of work undertaken by our lawyers
Advised on a high-profile phosphate mitigation scheme relating to a river in the New Forest area.
Advised on the consenting aspects of a large number of flood alleviation schemes.
Prepared cases for a public inquiry into a major flood alleviation scheme.
Advised on the expansion of a large water transfer scheme.
Advised on the 4km River Lee foul water storage tunnel (associated with the Thames Tideway Tunnel project).
Legal issues that may arise
Drafting leases and tri-partite leases for land including river beds.
Licences and leases of river space for commercial use.
Development and implementation of flood alleviation schemes.
Acquisition of land and planning permission for man made rivers.
Rights to access and mooring.
Environmental law issues including pollution and contamination prevention.
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.
​
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.
​
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.
​
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.