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David, who is qualified as both a barrister and solicitor-advocate, has expertise in all areas of planning, regularly appearing as an advocate in planning inquiries covering residential, employment, leisure, retail, highways and mineral schemes. He has a national reputation in the renewable energy sector, advising some of the UK’s largest providers. He is also well known for his specialist knowledge of cultural heritage matters. David was recently rated as the 8th best planning solicitor in the country in the annual Planning Magazine survey.

David specialises in advocacy at public inquiries and planning-related court work. His experience spans acting for private clients, local planning authorities and regulatory agencies. He has a thorough working knowledge of planning, environmental and local government related litigation in the Magistrates' Court, County Court, High Court and Lands Tribunal.

Solicitor Michelle Smith has extensive experience of the renewable energy sector and is highly skilled in all aspects of the appeal process, including drafting of complex legal agreements and conditions. She has worked on very large multi-disciplinary schemes across a number of subject areas.

David Hardy commented:

"I was attracted to Eversheds by reason of its enviable client base and reputation in the planning sector, particularly in the renewable energy sector. Working with the existing team, I am looking forward to bolstering its expertise.”

Stuart Andrews, Head of Eversheds’ planning Group commented:

“The planning team at Eversheds advises all of the top ten UK based housebuilders, mixed-use developers, retailers, investment funds, regeneration bodies and the Homes and Communities Agency. David and his team are an excellent addition to our existing team and we are very excited to welcome them on board.”