Bristol-based firm Burges Salmon LLP has 'deep and practical knowledge of UK rail, its structure, contracts and stakeholders', ensuring that it is well-placed to advice both lenders and borrowers on complex transactions. Chris Simms, who is a 'market leader in rolling stock projects', co-heads the team alongside Brioney Thomas , with both regularly handling major rolling stock procurement and financing work for many of the country's largest train operating companies.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Deep and practical knowledge of UK rail, its structure, contracts and stakeholders. Particular focus and skill set around rolling stock contracts and leasing.’
'They provide well considered and sensible advice. They are not condescending to non-lawyers and are easy to get on with.'
'The team was pragmatic, helpful and committed to get our transaction done to a challenging timetable. Where problems arose they proposed helpful and creative solutions to move the deal forward.’
‘Chris Simms has a very practical, pragmatic and professional approach. He is a market leader in rolling stock projects and managing the contractual interface between OEM, operator and owner.'
Key clients
- Transport for Wales (TfW) / Transport for Wales Rail Limited (TfWRL)
- First Greater Western Limited trading as GWR
- First TransPennine Express Limited trading as TransPennine Express
- Transport for Wales (TfW)
- First MTR South Western Trains
- West Midlands Trains Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Transport for Wales and the Welsh Government on the recast of TfWRL’s maintenance arrangements across the three new TfW Stadler fleets.
- Advised First Greater Western Limited/GWR on the negotiation and entry into rolling stock leasing arrangements in connection with the award of a new National Rail Contract from the Department for Transport.
- Advised Cardiff Parkway Developments Limited in connection with the major new station development and regeneration scheme at Cardiff Parkway, which is expected to see over 800,000 passengers a year.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Brioney Thomas, Chris Simms