The ‘incredibly commercial’ team at Ward Hadaway LLP leverages the firm’s regional network of offices to expertly assist housebuilders, commercial developers, occupiers, and investors with the full range of mandates. Robin Atkin and Lesley Fairclough jointly oversee the practice, which also includes Alex Cox, who handles investment transactions, rural estates work, and property developments. Transactional expert Sophie Bohill advises national and regional housebuilders on site acquisitions, including building leases, joint ventures, and overage issues. Nick Gholkar takes point on commercial development projects and portfolio management, while Lauren Frisby ably assists with development and landowner-focused transactions.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The team is very knowledgeable in respect of legal work for housing development.'
  • 'Sophie Bohill is very experienced in land acquisition and is creative and inventive in addressing complex legal issues.'
  • 'I have worked with Ward Hadaway for many years. They remain my 'go to' solicitors practice for all legal work and I wouldn't recommend anyone else.'
  • 'I work most closely with Sophie Bohill who is an exceptionally personable, driven and knowledgeable lawyer. She is astute and commercially aware with extremely broad knowledge of residential development. These attributes are very valuable to me and contribute hugely to project success.'
  • Nick Ghulkor, Partner, is excellent and receives ten out of ten.'
  • 'Lauren Frisby receives full marks. She is great to deal with and has completed complex developments.'
  • E'xcellent advice is provided. We always receive a fast response. We couldn't do our job without them as they are excellent. No other firm has ever been as good or assisted on large strategic developments as well as they have.'
  • 'The range of services offered is comprehensive. They have a good understanding of our business.'

Key clients

  • BDW Trading Limited (Barratt Homes)
  • Darlington Borough Council
  • Northumberland Estates
  • Darlington Borough Council
  • The Eaga Trust
  • Sherburn House Charity
  • City of Sunderland College
  • Keepmoat Homes Limited
  • Gleeson Regeneration Limited
  • Story Homes Limited

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Robin Atkin, Lesley Fairclough

Other key lawyers

Nick Gholkar, Lauren Frisby, Alex Cox, Sophie Bohill