Shakespeare Martineau LLP

Legal Planning

Legal Director

Rachael is a Planning lawyer with over 10 years’ experience, acting for both private and public sector clients on a wide range of matters, primarily within the housing and energy sectors, including: - the drafting and negotiation of s.106 agreements and deeds of variation (including in relation to strategic sites); - submitting appeals to the Secretary of State against the refusal or non-determination of planning applications; - making applications to the High Court for judicial review and s.288 challenges; - drafting and negotiating s.38/278 agreements and advising landowners and developers in relation to highways issues; - advising developers and landowners in relation to permitted development rights and changes of use; - advising in relation to applications for certificates of lawful use and development; - assisting on applications for nationally significant infrastructure projects; and - providing day to day support on Real Estate and Corporate matters, including on sale and acquisition and refinancing projects requiring planning due diligence. Rachael is based in the Solihull and Birmingham offices and joined SHMA in October 2023, having previously worked at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP and Shoosmiths LLP. Rachael regularly attends local planning and development events and is on the committee for Women in Planning (West Midlands branch).