The planning and environment team at Carson McDowell is known for handling planning permissions and advising on environmental law requirements across a wide spectrum of industries, such as energy, industrial, and hospitality. Gary McGhee leads the team and is a go-to for major developers for securing planning permission for projects that involve complex environmental considerations. Grant McBurney is highlighted for his expertise defending clients in judicial review proceedings. Faye Phillips and Sarah Dunlop regularly advise on planning applications in the energy sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Excellent knowledge of legal system and current legislation.’

  • ‘Grant McBurney is exceptional. His understanding of complex legal issues is the best I have worked with in over 35 years of industry experience. The entire team are approachable and makes complex issues easy to understand.’

Key clients

  • Islandmagee Energy Limited
  • The Port of Belfast

Work highlights

Advising Islandmagee Energy Limited on its applications to obtain marine licence consents to construct 7 large gas storage caverns in the seabed off the coast of Northern Ireland.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame

The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

Gary McGhee

Other key lawyers

Grant McBurney; Faye Phillips; Sarah Dunlop