Building Blocks: Bakewell Managements Ltd v Brandwood [2004]

In this Building Blocks episode, Richard goes into vehicle access as per s.193(4) of the Law of Property Act 1925 with Bakewell Managements Ltd v Brandwood. Supported by the precedent of Hanning and Others v Top Deck Travel Group Ltd [1993], Richard describes how you cannot base prescriptive long-use easements on illegal acts and so you cannot claim prescriptive rights to drive across commons. In light of holding people to ransom in order to drive across commons, usually to access their own properties, the dispute lay in whether you can gain a prescriptive right despite the 'illegal' use of land. Richard presented how the decision in Bakewell went against the decision in Massey v Boulden [2002].

ALL PODCASTS

LEGAL TRAINING

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.