UNIVERSITIES
Higher education institutions and universities face complex property, planning, and regulatory considerations, from campus acquisitions and leases to redevelopment, expansion, and compliance with statutory requirements. We advise universities, councils, and investors on managing and developing higher education estates efficiently, sustainably, and in line with legal obligations.
Examples of work undertaken by our lawyers
Advising University of Central Lancashire on their operational estate matters, including student and commercial leases, long lease re-gearing arrangements, acquisitions, disposals, food operator franchises/lease arrangements and property input into long-term estate planning strategies.
Advising Leeds Beckett University on politically sensitive student possession proceedings in relation to a student with disabilities.
Advising The University of Central Lancashire on: a pre-construction services agreement, letter of intent and on a JCT design and build construction contract for a new build and partly refurbished veterinary school; building defects regarding a newly completed flagship student centre; and the construction and development of a new grant funded 5,000sq meter teaching facility potentially forming the first phase of a new campus site.
Advising Sheffield Hallam University on the implications of the Building Safety Act for 3 separate new build teaching facilities.
Advising the University of Central Lancashire on procurement issues arising from the proposed appointment of a food franchisee operator to run food outlets across the whole campus.
Legal Issues that may arise
Public Procurement law and running an effective procurement process.
Student Accommodation - whether it’s a simple lease or a major accommodation project.
Green Leases
Net zero carbon transitioning.
Partnering, collaboration and joint ventures (including the establishment of overseas campus facilities).
UK based master planned campus redevelopment projects.
Large scale real estate portfolio management.
Construction law including bespoke construction contracts, professional appointments, and warranties.
Alternative dispute resolution, mediation, proceedings in the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) and court litigation.
Planning, CPO, and Highways.
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.