Acting for a lucrative client roster of real estate investors, energy providers and suppliers, and manufacturing companies, DLA Piper's Sheffield-based team often assists with leasing and letting agreements, and portfolio acquisitions and disposals. Nigel Howard leads the practice and specialises in regeneration and corporate real estate issues. Other key members of the team include Mark Keeling, who assists corporate occupiers, Stephen Blacksell who has extensive experience in purpose-built student accommodation projects, and Victoria Doig who is well-versed in real estate finance.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Key clients

  • University of Sheffield
  • Tata Steel UK Limited
  • ITM Power (Trading) Limited
  • Heygate & Sons
  • Vaillant Limited
  • EQT Real Investments Sarl
  • Ibstock Plc
  • Sheffield Wednesday Football Club Limited
  • Watkin Jones
  • Ansys UK Limited
  • Tarmac
  • Coal Products Limited
  • Langley Properties Limited (MAS REI)
  • ASD Limited
  • J J Finnegan Limited
  • HSBC
  • Newell Rubbermaid
  • Kohlberg Kravis Roberts
  • Roundhill Capital
  • Price Check Toiletries
  • C A Ventures
  • Solvay
  • Tapton Estates
  • Rhodia UK Limited
  • G E Energy
  • Wavin Limited (Orbia)
  • Canon Medical Systems Limited
  • CASL New Cross (London) Property Owner Limited
  • Hain Daniels
  • Algeco
  • Sytner
  • Tes Global Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted for the University of Sheffield on a number of AMRC sites. Recent work includes preparing, negotiating and completing the letting documents (agreements, leases and licences) between the Welsh Government (as owner of the site) and Airbus as the University’s tenant.
  • Acting on behalf of Heygates in the securing of planning permission for circa 250 acres of land at Norwood Farm for residential development incorporating 1900 units and key infrastructure including a spine road and new primary school.
  • Advised EQT Real Investments Sar on the acquisition of a 2063 bed portfolio in Bath, Nottingham, Swansea, Bristol and Glasgow from Watkin Jones, the first 3 assets being forward funded, and the second two leasehold operational assets being acquired once landlord’s consent had been obtained.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Nigel Howard

Other key lawyers

Mark Keeling, Stephen Blacksell, Victoria Doig, Marc Harvey