CMS covers a broad range of asset classes in the development space, advising on healthcare, student accommodation, mixed-use, office, and leisure development matters. The team has seen rapid growth in recent times, with five lateral hires at partner level. Paul Paling and Melanie Hughes joined from Michelmores LLP in April 2023, Michael Buchanan joined from Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP in July 2023, Barry Edgar moved from Dentons in October 2023, and Rebecca Moore, who shifted from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner in January 2024. The enlarged practice, containing the likes of Ciaran Carvalho, is led by Marie Scott, Andrew Banton, John Cumpson and Chris Rae. Scott is well-versed in transactional matters regarding areas of increased interest, including data centres and logistics, whilst Banton regularly supports Hong Kong- and China-based investors. Caroline Maude and Barry Morris specialise in office developments. Mark Heighton, on the other hand, excels in the life sciences, build-to-rent and senior living sectors. Chris Oakley lends his insight into regeneration and joint venture projects to clients. Leilah Rawle is an expert on energy-related developments. Scott Curtis and Irfaan Khaliq were promoted to partner in April 2023.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The people are all excellent lawyers, but they are also nice individuals to work with. They make transactions enjoyable, and you always feel supported.'
‘Mark Heighton is my go to for advice. He has an excellent legal brain, but is also extremely commercial. He is very experienced and nothing phases him.’
‘Large practice with strength in depth.’
Key clients
- AimCo
- AXA REIM
- Battersea Power Station Development Company
- Blackstone
- GPE
- HB Reavis
- Federated Hermes
- Legal & General Pensions Limited
- Landsec
- Long Harbour
- Mitsubishi Estate London Limited
- Mitsui Fudosan
- SEGRO Plc
- Signal Capital
- Urbanest
- DIF Infrastructure
Work highlights
- Advising Urbanest on all aspects of Europe's largest PBSA scheme, a three-tower development in Canary Wharf, London.
- Advising on the first of its kind portfolio project financing and subsequent development of seven solar and battery co-location projects in the UK.
- Advising on the acquisition and development of the revolutionary, world-leading eyecare education and research centre at Kings Cross London.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Next Generation Partners
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Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Marie Scott, Andrew Banton, John Cumpson, Chris Rae