Utility companies have particular interests and unique requirements. Their rights and responsibilities often stem from their statutory foundations and then acquisition of property and rights as part of their utility undertakings from predecessor local authorities.
The team’s non-contentious caseload includes operational property work headed by Simon Ellis. This work focuses on the enhancement and development of networks and obtaining rights by way of options, licences and easements, as well as leasehold and freehold acquisitions and redundant asset disposal.
Partner Claire Riding acts in the specialist area of environmental law but sits within the Real Estate Team. She acts for both prosecution and defence in a variety of scenarios.
The team also acts to defend Lands Tribunal claims where utility functions are claimed to have blighted development opportunities. Planning Partner David Kerfoot provides the lead in this area.
Other specialist litigation in particular challenging free water supplies has been undertaken by Litigation Partner Trefor Jones.
Like most large organisations utility companies have vehicle fleets and the firm’s specialist Transport Unit, headed by Partner Tim Culpin has advised on transport issues and offers review and audit services.
