Offering the full spectrum of advice on development consent orders, complex planning applications and court litigation work, Gowling WLG is renowned for its representation of government bodies and multinational housing associations. The practice’s leadership is split between London and Birmingham, with the ‘standout planning lawyer’ Toni Weston co-heading from the West Midlands, specialising in highway schemes, regeneration projects and commercial developments. Cairo Nickolls consistently assists with residential development initiatives, whilst Richard Thurling is also highlighted as a key member.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Gowlings are undoubtedly one of a handful of 'go to' firms for the development industry. They have strength in depth and an enviable national reputation.’
‘Toni Weston is the standout planning lawyer in the Birmingham office, but I have also been very impressed by Cairo Nicholls and Emma Cartledge-Taylor. All three are extremely competent and commercially minded solicitors.’
Key clients
- Bloor Homes Limited
- Persimmon Homes Limited
- Transport for London
- National Highways Limited
- London Borough of Barnet
- Miller Homes Limited
- Taylor Wimpey UK
- Goodman Real Estate
- St Modwen Developments and St Modwen Homes
- South Tees Development Corporation
- Sanctuary Housing Association
- Mulberry Commercial Developments Limited
- Land and Partners
- Hayfield Homes
- Latimer and the Clarion Housing Group
- Vistry Homes
- Barratt Homes Limited
Work highlights
- Acted as lead legal advisor to National Highways on applications for development consent orders for the A585 Windy Harbour Skippool scheme, the M54 to M6 Link Road scheme, the A57 Link Roads scheme and the proposed M60 Simister Island scheme.
- Advising a consortium of landowners and developers on the preparation and submission of a planning application for a sustainable urban extension of 5,500 new homes at Langley in the West Midlands.
- Advising the London Borough of Barnet on planning related matters arising from the multi-billion-pound Brent Cross Cricklewood scheme which will create: a new town centre, incorporating: 7,500 homes, 27,000 jobs, three re-built schools, redevelopment of the Brent Cross shopping centre, new parks and community facilities, an additional Thameslink train station, as well as major road and public transport improvements.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Toni Weston, Vicky Fowler