Planning
UK Guide 2025 : Scotland
Band 1
Contact number
0131 228 3777About
Provided by Brodies LLP
Our lawyers collaborate with our clients in navigating what are frequently complex and challenging issues against a rapidly evolving and complex regulatory background.
We bring market leading expertise and knowledge to every client and situation; we also have wide ranging experience with regulators and those who are regulated. This gives us the perspective to provide the most commercial and pragmatic advice tailored to our clients’ needs, no matter whether the matter is contentious or non-contentious.
Working with clients in the public and private sectors, our lawyers' expertise extends across strategic advice; prevention and assistance with risk management; consenting, including environmental impact assessment; compulsory purchase and compensation; due diligence and contractual protection mechanisms; prosecutions and regulatory matters; land development, contaminated land and remediation and health and safety. We have wide experience on and off-shore: in urban and rural locations and dealing with sites protected for environmental sensitivity. Key sectors include real estate, renewable energy, infrastructure and housing.
We participate actively and are invested in strategic issues driving engagement and discussion with all stakeholders, helping to develop, influence and shape our market and future thinking.
Chambers Review
Brodies has a first-rate planning team that regularly acts for public sector clients, such as local authorities, as well as substantial private sector clients. The team frequently handles infrastructure planning and compulsory purchase matters, and is noted for its work on planning inquiries. The lawyers are also highly experienced in renewable energy and residential property matters such as onshore wind and affordable housing. The team provides additional expertise in the planning aspects of retail and leisure schemes.
Work Highlights
- Brodies successfully represented Muir Homes in an appeal to the Scottish Ministers against the refusal of planning permission for the construction of a new road junction, allowing for the residential development of 700 homes.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"They have very strong knowledge of the Scottish planning system. We haven't happened upon an issue for which Brodies didn't have specialist expertise. All enquiries are handled promptly."
"They dealt with the matter expertly from start to finish. They offer a personable service with advice geared to our specific objectives, which Brodies understands well."
"Brodies is the leading planning law practice in Scotland, with incredible levels of knowledge, experience and expertise. Their commercial awareness is always at the forefront of their approach."
"They can unpick complex queries quickly and offer straightforward, pragmatic advice."
"They have knowledgeable, approachable and accessible partners. They are capable of advising clients on complex issues in a clear, concise and solution-focused manner."
"They have very strong knowledge of the Scottish planning system. We haven't happened upon an issue for which Brodies didn't have specialist expertise. All enquiries are handled promptly."
"They dealt with the matter expertly from start to finish. They offer a personable service with advice geared to our specific objectives, which Brodies understands well."
"Brodies is the leading planning law practice in Scotland, with incredible levels of knowledge, experience and expertise. Their commercial awareness is always at the forefront of their approach."
"They can unpick complex queries quickly and offer straightforward, pragmatic advice."
"They have knowledgeable, approachable and accessible partners. They are capable of advising clients on complex issues in a clear, concise and solution-focused manner."
Notable Practitioners
Elaine Farquharson-Black is commended for her standout planning practice in the Aberdeen market. She is highly sought after by clients for her expertise in the housebuilding industry and compulsory purchase compensation claims.
"Elaine has no faults."
"She's a fantastic planning law expert with an abundance of knowledge and expertise. She always demonstrates commitment to delivering a high-quality service and achieving positive outcomes for clients."
Neil Collar is held in high regard for his extensive knowledge of the Scottish planning law system. He is well known for representing clients in public inquiries and planning appeals.
"Neil provides incredibly concise planning advice with fast turnaround times and good value for money."
"As well as his experience and knowledge, Neil is a pleasure to deal with given the high level of his service and the commercial focus he brings to the table."
"He is a well-respected lawyer in the planning sector."
Karen Hamilton has a broad planning practice encompassing matters such as judicial review, public inquiries and compulsory purchase orders. She acts for clients across a breadth of sectors such as energy, residential development and aquaculture.
"Karen is an exceptional lawyer. She offers a high level of expertise and we have great trust in her. She is able to break down complex legal problems and offer pragmatic advice."
"Karen has an excellent manner. She is a good communicator, offers great clarity in her advice and has a strong ability to grasp complex situations quickly. She's always available."
Ranked Lawyers at
Brodies LLP
Scotland