David Richardson
Ashfords LLPAshfords LLP advises on an array of planning matters spanning s106 agreements, highway agreements, CPOs, and community infrastructure levies, in addition to nutrient neutrality and contentious matters. Alongside its sizeable roster of public sector and housebuilder clients, the practice also has ‘second to none’ renewable sector knowledge, highlighted by its involvement in numerous developments of national significance and NSIPs, particularly in Wales. Based in Exeter, the team is led by David Richardson, a residential development and CPO expert. He is joined by energy specialist Stephen Humphreys in Bristol and contentious expert Gareth Pinwell in Plymouth. Also noted are legal directors Elisabeth Osborne and Duncan Moors, who are both located in Exeter.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team is excellent.'
‘David Richardson offers clear advice, clear legal opinion and is also pragmatic in the face of land and planning battles that are inevitable in the industry. He offers clarity on what processes are correct and incorrect and how guidance and legislation does and doesn't engage with specifics faced by landowners, consultants, developers etc. He does this in a professional way. David recognises and is capable of describing key points to those making the instruction or who need the advice.’
‘Knowledge of the renewable energy sector is second to none.’
‘Stephen Humphreys is brilliant, knowledgeable, strategic, impressive and personable.’
‘David Richardson and the rest of the team are very responsive and plugged into the wider real estate business as well as the latest legal and practical developments in planning and planning law.’
‘Excellent practice giving sound advice and very user-friendly professional staff.’
‘Approachable knowledgeable individuals with excellent reputation in the the land and planning market. Ashfords have always given a very personal service.’
'A leading planning law practice.'
Key clients
- Vistry Homes
- Biffa Waste
- Devon County Council
- RWE
- London Borough of Wandsworth
- Dorset Council
- South West Water
- London Borough of Brent
- Homes England
- Wentlooge Farmers’ Solar Scheme Limited
- Island Green Power
Work highlights
- Advising Waddeton Park Limited in relation to the planning appeal inquiry held following Mendip Council’s refusal of an outline application for Waddeton’s Glastonbury scheme for 90 dwellings together with open space.
- Advising Wandsworth Borough Council on the planning application for the extension of the All England Lawn Tennis Club - a hybrid planning application, which is cross boundary in Wandsworth and Merton.
- Advising Wentlooge Farmers’ Solar Scheme Limited on its successful statutory challenge against the Welsh Ministers’ decision to refuse planning permission for a 125MW solar Development of National Significance in Wales.
Lawyers
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.
Stephen Humphreys
Ashfords LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
David Richardson