Burges Salmon LLP utilises its ‘fundamental understanding of water-related legislation’ to advise on environmental issues arising from the management and use of water, including water transfers. The practice also acts for water companies facing investigations by Ofwat and the Environment Agency. Michael Barlow steers the practice, specialising in regulatory issues affecting the water sector, including environmental compliance and permitting challenges. Solicitor-advocate Victoria Barnes is a key contact for environmental disputes, including both regulatory enforcement proceedings and prosecutions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'It is the team's capacity to listen to and understand the client's needs, worries and concerns that impresses me. That, layered with their fundamental understanding of water-related legislation, policy and practice, makes them unique in their service offering.'
- 'Really strong team on water law. For environmental issues in the water sector, they are the go-to firm.'
- 'Michael Barlow really understands water.'
- 'Depth of expertise and insight in this sector.'
- 'Highly skilled and knowledgeable.'
- 'Approachable and friendly.'
Key clients
- Canal & River Trust
- Environment Agency and Canal & River Trust
- Affinity Water
- Wessex Water
- Severn Trent Water
- South West Water
- Welsh Water
- Albion Water
Work highlights
- Advised Severn Trent Water on the regulatory and real estate issues arising from its £76m investment in Mansfield to develop sustainable drainage systems.
- Advised the Canal & River Trust on changes to the legislation relating to the abstraction of water from rivers (by removal of historic exemptions), and subsequent appeals of six of the licences granted by the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales to the Trust.
- Advised Severn Trent Water, Affinity Water and Canal & River Trust on the Grand Union Canal Project.
Lawyers
Leading partners
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Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Michael Barlow