Construction

CMS

The ‘dynamic, first-rate’ construction group at CMS in Manchester is highly regarded for its expertise handling the full range of high-value, international matters, particularly within the energy sector. ’Giant in his field’ Chris Hallam heads the practice, which is also well-equipped to handle major transport infrastructure projects. Chris Henshaw has broad experience spanning waste-to-energy, offshore wind and solar projects. Helen Johnson divides her time between Manchester and Sheffield, routinely advising on complex development issues. Charlotte Eccles focuses on non-contentious mandates, while Nick Case is noted for acting in complex construction disputes. Helen Achilleos joined the practice from Pinsent Masons LLP in September 2023 and Jack Duncanson from Myerson Solicitors in January 2024.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘CMS are a relationship-based business and our relationship with them has grown. At the centre of this is trust. We have the utmost trust in CMS. Trust in the people -their responsiveness; creativity, problem solving focus and their absolute understanding of our needs; and trust in the firm; their depth of subject matter expertise and commitment to living their values in respect of diversity, inclusiveness and social responsibility.’
‘Chris Hallam and David Turner provide us with excellent customer service, they both display excellent, balanced judgement and their subject matter knowledge is second-to-none. They are both avid listeners, hence they understand our business needs and most importantly can articulate solutions to service those legal needs from a creative problem-solving perspective which aligns perfectly with our business ethos.’
‘The team offers a hugely commercially-focused approach to legal service provision. Many lawyers often lose perspective and get stuck in the weeds on points which ultimately are not value for money to argue. The CMS team avoid this and have a laser-like focus on where risk lies and how to negotiate this effectively.’
‘Chris Hallam is a giant in his field. Chris' commercial acumen in contractual matters is second-to-none. Hugely experienced and undaunted by new challenges. Chris is also a pleasure to deal with on either side of the table.'
'David Turner is extremely capable and has a strong understanding of contractual matters. You can depend on him to drive the deal home.’
‘Excellent partner-led service with unrivalled comprehension of the sector, which provides a level of strategic insight vital to successful negotiations.’

Key clients

Polish Government Nuclear Energy Agency
Mace Construction
Dragados Construction
Candu Energy
The MEH SZC Alliance
Lendlease
Equans Group
Balfour Beatty
Sanofi SA
Hyde Housing Association
The Freedom Group of Companies
EDF Group
Arc Group
NG Bailey
Altrad Group
Bilfinger
University College London
Ipsen Pharma
Equinor New Energy
The UK Health & Security Agency
CBRE
University College London
GRS Roadstone Group
Moorfields Eye Hospitals NHS Trust
Care UK
Luton Town Football Club
Blackrock
Henry Boot plc
Sheffield United Football Club

Work highlights

Advising the Polish Government on a $20bn engineering, procurement and construction contract and related contracts for the country’s first nuclear power station.
Advising the Mace Dragados joint venture on the construction contracts for new railway stations at Euston and Birmingham as part of HS2, Europe’s largest construction project.
Advising Candu Energy on multi-billion value supply and refurbishment contracts in respect of an existing nuclear power station in Cernavoda, Romania.