Rail

Burges Salmon LLP

Praised for providing an ‘excellent service’, the large and dedicated rail team at Burges Salmon LLP covers a broad range of specialisms in this sector. It has an outstanding client base, which includes some of the UK’s largest train operating groups. It continues to be involved in many of the most significant franchising matters. In addition, the firm has been involved in a significant number of the UK’s largest rolling stock procurement exercises. The group plays a pivotal role in many infrastructure projects too, and is skilled at advising on health and safety matters, as well as regulatory issues. The group is also recognised for its considerable cross-border capabilities. Brioney Thomas is highly recommended. Ian Tucker continues to advise on some of the largest disputes in this industry. Chris Simms is vastly experienced in all aspects of rail regulation, and in infrastructure finance transactions. Simon Coppen, Charlotte Whitaker, and Chris Jackson are all highly recommended.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘Chris Simms offers the experience and the necessary support of the transactions, also the associated risks and pitfalls.’
‘The team is unique due to its true specialism in the rail sector. Helping clients navigate the maze of complex regulations that apply to the sector, including safety and performance, procurement law and competition. The rail team is highly collaborative, friendly and approachable.'
‘Brioney Thomas has superb technical knowledge of the rail sector and leads a super team. Brioney combines her extensive technical knowledge with a focus on achieving practical solutions to complex challenges to get deals over the line.'
'Brioney is great to work with - approachable and friendly and takes the time to develop great relationships not only with the in-house lawyers instructing her but also to the wider project/management team. ’
‘Brioney Thomas is a stand-out in her field. She comes with a wealth of knowledge and practical solutions.’
‘The team at Burges Salmon provide an excellent service throughout and are a pleasure to deal with at all levels. Their ability and prior knowledge of the industry and their ability to keep up to date with ever-changing developments makes the team a delight to work with.’
'Ian Tucker's experience in litigation has been critical to the support of projects and to providing a logical and protected way forward, using his extensive knowledge. His calm and collected manner in which to approach complexities has been instrumental.'
‘Chris Simms has a unique ability to simplify complex matters for his clients, enabling sensible and pragmatic contractual solutions. His experience is relevant, and he is able to convert commercial to contractual seamlessly.'

Key clients

FirstRail Holdings Limited GWR, SWR, Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
West Midlands Trains Limited
Transport for London and London Underground Limited
NNB Generation Company (SZC) Limited
Greater Anglia
Transport Design International
Transport for Wales Rail Limited
TransPennine Express Limited
Northern Ireland Railways - Translink

Work highlights

Advised West Midlands Trains Limited on the private financing of Tyseley and Bletchley depots.
Advised FirstGroup and First TransPennine Express Limited on a number of strategically significant rolling stock transactions and on the handover of the business to the operator of last resort following the expiry of its National Rail Contract.
Advised Transport Design International Limited on the sale of its award-winning RevolutionTM Very Light Rail technology-enabled, battery powered vehicles to Eversholt Rail Group.

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