Planning & Environmental

Few would argue that the planning system in England and Wales isn’t complex or that the rules and regulations standstill. There are numerous layers of legislation (in addition to the Town and Country Planning Act 1990), varied national, local and regional policies and a raft of case law. As a result of devolution, the planning systems in England and Wales are also evolving into distinctive national planning systems.

Furthermore, the environmental considerations of any development stand at the top of the central, regional and local government agendas. Here too, regulations are complex. In recent years businesses have had to look beyond their immediate local concerns and pay attention to the global challenges facing us all.

As a top-ranked stand-alone team of specialists, we come highly recommended from a broad range of clients across both the public and private sectors as a “First class practice, known for its ‘stunning advice’ (Legal 500). We have a deep understanding, proven track record and expert resources to handle all the issues surrounding modern planning and environment procedures.

The team is best known for being accessible and giving practical pragmatic advice. A significant part of our practice includes preparing and negotiating section 106 planning agreements and obligations acting for local planning authorities, private sector developers and landowners on the non-contentious side but we are equally at home in a contentious public inquiry, judicial review or statutory challenge.

We can support you at all stages of your development to highlight sensitive issues, define risks and liabilities and make sure everyone knows exactly where they stand. A complex development is likely to require lawyers who are knowledgeable about related subjects, and we have high levels of expertise across all relevant areas. We have expertise in:


Related expertise include: Compulsory Purchase & Compensation, Highways, Infrastructure, Regeneration & Development, SuDs.

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What clients say

"The team is very knowledgeable and customer focused in their approach. They have very good relations with the authorities in Wales responsible for planning and compulsory purchase and this relationship has given added value to the Council as a client"

Legal 500 2024

"The team has a good understanding of the law in Wales and a very detailed knowledge of the working of Welsh Government and the administrative sector in Wales."

Planning & Environment, Wales, Legal 500 2023

"They combine a keen commerciality with a deep commitment to public sector work."

Planning & Environment, Wales, Legal 500 2023

"Geldards demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the subject matter and make a great effort to contextualise their advice"

Chambers & Partners 2024

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