Freeths’ top ten planning practice declared fastest growing in the sector

We're extremely proud of our national planning practice as it's now been recognised in this year's Planning Law Survey as one of the top 10 biggest teams within the UK and the joint fastest-growing in the sector. The firm shares its top place with CMS, after both business’s planning solicitor numbers soared since 2022.

Freeths’ 33 strong Planning and Environment Group which comprises planning lawyers, environmental lawyers, advocates and chartered town planners is now amongst the top ten UK firms in terms of size, with 18 qualified solicitors, after strengthening its national presence across the business’s 13 offices over the last year.

The results of this survey follow a year of exponential growth for Freeths’ planning practice, with the team reaching heightened success after making strategic hires, including Alison Ogley (Partner) in Leeds, Sarah Phillips (Director) in Bristol and Chris May (Partner) in the East Midlands.

Paul Brailsford, Parter and National Head of Planning and Environmental at Freeths, said: “Growth in the last year has been a direct result of both our growing reputation as market leaders and investment in establishing new teams across the Freeths office network. 

We have a unique, multi-disciplinary offer which appeals to clients. With the introduction of biodiversity net gain earlier in the year and prominence of other environmental issues in planning such as nutrient neutrality etc. we have been well placed to lead the field on natural capital work which we expect to continue to increase over the coming year.”

This accolade comes just weeks after Freeths’ Director Richard Broadbent and Senior Associate Helen Mitcheson were named in The ENDS Report Power List as two of the 100 UK environmental professionals who have made the greatest impact in the past two years.

The pair were nominated for their extensive work across habitats, species, wildlife and the natural environment.