Central and Local Government
Central Government
Our work in the general arena of central government covers a number of different and highly specialised areas.
First, we advise clients on the procedures of Parliament and the devolved legislatures of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, in whose jurisdictions we have long-standing connections and experience. We assist clients concerned with the impact of new and proposed legislation, and advise them on making representations through the most appropriate channels.
Second, we draft amendments to Public Bills and both promote and petition against Hybrid Bills and Private Bills on behalf of clients. Our parliamentary team specialises in public infrastructure schemes, and is recognised nationally as a leader in this field. We have wide experience of advising both promoters of and objectors to schemes such as harbours, railways and other transport, reservoirs, electricity operating stations and other utilities infrastructure. Our service covers everything from compulsory purchase to planning and environmental issues.
Third, many of our clients are public bodies and we regularly advise them on issues relating to public procurement, European law, constitutional law, human rights and, more recently, the Freedom of Information Act.
In all three areas, specialist legal expertise, a focus on objectives and long experience of the way central government operates, enable us to provide clients with an efficient and cost-effective service.
Local Government
Several factors combine to complicate the kinds of transactions undertaken by local authorities. Firstly, the statutory framework is unique. Secondly, a large number of parties can be involved, including from the government, charity and private sectors. Thirdly, assessing risk and reward is difficult when it is impossible to put a financial figure on either.
Of course, our local government clients need us to have a deep experience of advising local authorities on transport, housing and regeneration projects. We do. They also require something quite different, even contradictory: experience of working in the private sector. Having worked on both sides of the public/private fence, our lawyers can contribute invaluable perspective and creativity. Because we understand the private contractors’ objectives and limitations, we are able to find new ways to structure transactions that satisfy all parties and share the risk fairly.
This experience has been built up working for around a third of the UK’s local authorities. Recent high profile transport projects include Crossrail in London, the redevelopment of Edinburgh’s Waverley station and the proposed tramway system in Leeds. We have also advised on a large number of housing and regeneration projects, for local authorities in Hertfordshire, and in Lewisham and Hammersmith in London. In each of these projects we were able to bring to bear both public sector understanding and pragmatic commercial awareness.
Winckworth Sherwood understands the goals and aspirations that define the unique culture of central and local government organisations. We are equipped to help clients achieve their goals and turn aspirations into realities.
Planning Bill : Speeding up the System? (60Kb)