England - South East • Real estate
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Environment and planning

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Holmes & Hills

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Holmes & Hills houses a team of planning specialists located in Essex, headed by Michael Harman and managing partner Steven Hopkins. With strong litigation capabilities, the team particularly excels at handling contentious planning law matters. Hopkins regularly advises on planning inquiries, while Harman is recommended for matters relating to compulsory purchase orders. Sarah Hare is experienced at negotiating and drafting section 106 agreements. Described by clients as ‘knowledgeable, professional, personable, and responsive’, Joanna Lilliott is a standout member of the team who regularly advises local councils on a variety of planning matters.
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Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Michael Harman consistently delivers an excellent level of expertise.’

  • ‘Joanne Lilliot is knowledgeable, professional, personable, and responsive. I am very happy with the service she provides.’

  • 'Michael Harman is very good with queries regarding covenants as well as land registry issues.’

  • 'Joanna Lilliott is highly regarded and consistently provides excellent legal advice in all matters relating to planning obligations and section 106 agreements.'

  • 'The team provides legal support across a range of matters, including section 106 agreements, planning enforcement, compulsory purchase orders as well as general planning and procedural matters. The team are always helpful and supportive.'

  • 'Michael Harman was excellent. He was a pleasure to work with. He's a good communicator.’

  • 'Holmes & Hills provide a one-stop-shop for all aspects of law and guidance in relation to town and country planning matters.'

  • 'Steven Hopkins is go-to lawyer. He knows everything. He provides sage, cogent advice on all the planning matters.'

Key clients

  • Braintree District Council
  • Colchester Borough Council
  • Harlow District Council
  • Babergh Mid Suffolk District Council
  • Rochford District Council
  • Aspire Luxury Homes Limited
  • Chelmsford Cars & Commercials Limited
  • Colchester United Hospitality Limited
  • Fristling Hall Farm Limited
  • George Tanner Limited

Work highlights

  • Acting for Colchester City Council in connection with s106 planning obligations.
  • Acted for numerous blight and discretionary purchase applications since the summer of 2020 regarding the Development Consent Order to undertake improvement works to the A12 and A120 roadways.
  • Acted for a local authority in respect of a judicial review of the local planning authority’s decision to refuse to grant planning permission following its planning committee’s original resolution to grant it.

Lawyers

Practice head

Steven Hopkins; Michael Harman

Other key lawyers

Jo Lilliott; Sarah Hare