Matt advises on planning and environmental matters, with a particular focus on rural and urban diversification, regeneration and bespoke business and residential development. He has practised as a Barrister in the Government Legal Service, a solicitor at international law firms in London and a Principal Planning Solicitor. Matt regularly speaks at RICS events and is a member of the RICS Rural Market Forum, the London Society and the Environmental Law Foundation, and a Committee Member of the Hampshire CLA.
Development of Land
Drawing on his experience as an advisory lawyer to the Secretary of State, Matt advises on a broad range of complex commercial residential and mixed-use project matters. His role in central government involved drafting legislation and examining appeal decision letters, giving him unique insight when it comes to helping clients create strategies to overcome obstacles during the planning application or appeal stages.
Matt was also the lead legal adviser to the UK government during negotiations of the Seveso II Directive on the control of major accident hazards. He is a valuable source of knowledge for cases involving hazardous substances, conservation areas and listed buildings.
Agriculture
As part of our Agriculture team, Matt is a trusted adviser to large landowners on matters ranging from music festivals to sensitive ecological and landscape issues and concerns involving the Environment Agency and Natural England. His work includes halting planning enforcement investigations and prosecutions, including tree preservation orders and breach of condition notices.
In particular, Matt has a strong understanding of regulations and environment affecting South of England AONBs, the South Downs National Park and the New Forest.
