Davitt Jones Bould is a boutique real estate firm experienced in providing its clients, which regularly include public bodies, on their development and regeneration schemes. Its expertise covers the full life cycle of a development project. The firm is well-versed in alternative asset classes, including affordable housing and film studio developments. The team is led by Peter Allinson, Madeleine Davitt and John Condliffe. Melanie Greer-Walker is a veteran in office development, whilst Philippa Hipwell often advises healthcare clients. The firm has seen sizable growth in the past year, with a number of new partners joining: Namita Maktar and Sandy Munroe joined in January 2024 from an in-house position and Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP respectively; Paul Davies joined in February 2024 from Harper James; and Stephanie Robinson joined in November 2023 from Bird & Bird LLP.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘A broad depth of work sectors gives a choice, but still a feeling you are dealing with a team.’

  • ‘Mary Anderson is precise. She has a great ability to focus on what matters, and to stay focused.’

  • ‘Very competent and knowledgeable and always add value to any discussion or situation.’

  • 'They advise clearly as to what concerns a client should have.’
  • ‘The individuals understand what is of importance to an estates surveyor and do not overcomplicate, offering direct and pragmatic solutions.'

  • 'A high level of competence and an expertise to get things done.’

Key clients

  • The Royal Parks
  • Guys and St Thomas Hospital
  • Rick Stein’s
  • UK Health Security Agency
  • Ministry of Defence
  • Smiggle
  • Department for Health and Social Care
  • National Highways
  • Surrey County Council
  • Fujifilm
  • Habitat for Humanity
  • Medical Research Foundation
  • Florence Nightingale Museum Trust
  • Woking Borough Council
  • Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
  • Natural England
  • Environment Agency
  • Brighton and Hove City Council
  • Optical Center
  • Integral UK plc

Work highlights

  • Advising UCLan on their development of a new 45,000sqft veterinary school at their main campus.
  • Advising The Royal Parks on the different elements of the City of Westminster’s ‘Streetscape’ development project.
  • Advising Surrey County Council on the £500million expansion of Shepperton Studios, which would make it the second-largest film studio in the world.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Peter Allinson, Madeleine Davitt, John Condliffe

Other key lawyers

Louisa Swanton, Philippa Hipwell, Melanie Greer-Walker, Mary Anderson, Sophie Philippon-Thomas