Utilities

We have extensive experience in advising the utilities sector, including water and sewerage undertakers, gas transporters, public communications providers (telecommunications operators) and others. We have also recently acted in relation to schemes for renewable sources of energy, such as wind and wave power.

The law relating to utilities has become increasingly complex since privatisation in the late 20th century. Our work in this field requires us to keep up to date both with legal changes and with technical developments

Construction schemes of all kinds are likely to have an impact on utilities apparatus, raising issues which have to be addressed at all stages from the formulation through to the implementation of the project.

When advising on infrastructure schemes such as railways, tramways, harbours and other works we are required to have regard to utilities, for example by drawing up arrangements needed to avoid conflict at the interface between the systems of different utilities and statutory undertakers.

Where we are not acting for the promoters of a major scheme we are often instructed by utilities who need to ensure that proper legal arrangements are in place to safeguard their rights and property.

Whether we are advising a promoter, developer or utility, our specialist construction team is on hand to advise on contracts, arrangements, and any potentially contentious matter that may arise. Working in tandem with them, our development, planning and environment lawyers are on hand to ensure that all regulations are followed, and agreements correctly agreed.

Utilities companies are generally large organisations requiring strict adherence to health and safety legislation as well as a comprehensive grasp of employment and employee issues. There are also opportunities for outsourcing, from human and business processes to IT function, which we can advise you on.

Another of our departments that can be of use to you is our commercial team. They can advise you on commercial contracts with distributors, as well as with potential suppliers during the procurement and implementation of any new sites.