Agriculture & Rural Affairs | UK Bar

Falcon Chambers is unanimously viewed as the pre-eminent set in London for agricultural and rural affairs matters. Barristers at Falcon Chambers demonstrate capability across a broad range of issues and are particularly well regarded for their high-level rural property expertise. Members have also been involved in an increasing number of proprietary estoppel cases such as Spencer v Spencer. Interviewees note the set's "in-depth knowledge of the law, particularly in complex areas, and sound commercial advice."

Francis Taylor Building enjoys a strong reputation for rural planning and environmental law, with a "a large amount of expertise in what is otherwise a very specialised area of legislation". Members are particularly recognised for their strength in town and village green matters, as well as development and rights of way disputes. Barristers at the set are equipped to handle a variety of disputes arising in rural settings, including those concerning the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Highways Act 1980. Members of FTB regularly contribute to leading textbooks. Recent work has included representing Open Spaces Society as an intervenor in the Court of Appeal case of Darwall v Dartmoor National Park Authority concerning wild camping rights on the Dartmoor Commons.

Landmark Chambers is a highly esteemed set proficient in handling rural planning and property matters, with "in-depth knowledge of a wide range of property-related issues". Members act in a broad range of matters, including landlord and tenant disputes, village green cases and rights of way issues. The set also has expertise in developments and minerals issues. Recent work for the set has included Cotham School v Bristol City Council, a case before the High Court concerning the registration of school playing fields as a village green.

New Square Chambers is a "very highly regarded set" for its track record of handling agricultural and rural affairs matters, with "a very good offering, able to advice on all aspects". The New Square Chambers' team are frequently instructed in cases involving public access matters, including town and village green cases and highways disputes. The set's barristers also have experience advising on rights of way issues, common land matters and countryside easements. Recent instructions have included representing the Ramblers' Association in a judicial review against the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs concerning a refused modification order to amend the Nottinghamshire Definitive Map and Statement.