Department profile
CMS

Planning & Environment

UK Guide 2026 : Scotland


CMS

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Planning & Environment - Scotland

Band 1

Band 1


What the Team is Known For

CMS takes on a broad spectrum of environmental and planning work, acting for public and private sector clients across energy, retail and chemical sectors. The team offers notable experience in compliance and enforcement issues and also assists with environmental impact assessments and corporate due diligence. CMS is also noted for its work on student accommodation and hotels, managing major portfolios and development proposals.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • CMS advised Aura Blockchain Consortium on environmental and sustainability legislative requirements in relation to the introduction of digital product passports.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • They have the depth of knowledge, tenacity, willingness to go the extra distance and pragmatism. CMS guides us through complex regulatory landscapes with a team comprised of recognised experts.

    Planning & Environment respondentUK
  • They have incredible experience and knowledge in Scotland and more broadly across the UK. They have the ability to service pan UK clients from their Scottish offices.

    Planning & Environment respondentUK
  • We are very happy with CMS. They work very well at the relationship and take the time to listen to us and our requirements. They offer quality advice and responsive lawyers.

    Planning & Environment respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Pamela Turok
    Band 1Pamela Turok

    Pamela Turok

    Pamela Turok has a strong reputation in the market for her experience in complex issues concerning environmental regulation and liability. She is particularly knowledgeable in the energy and oil and gas sectors.

    • Pamela is good to work with.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK
  • Band 2Joanna Waddell
    Band 2Joanna Waddell

    Joanna Waddell

    Joanna Waddell co-heads the environment department and specialises in regulatory and enforcement matters relating to waste, water, and chemicals. She also assists energy companies and local authorities with transactional due diligence and liability issues that fall under environmental law.

    • Joanna is an environmental specialist at the heart of environmental law. She has a mega list of environmental clients.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK
    • Joanna is exceptional.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK
  • Band 2Mark McMurray
    Band 2Mark McMurray

    Mark McMurray

    Mark McMurray is well versed in representing property developers, local authorities and energy companies in major regeneration developments as well as infrastructure and energy projects. He is also well regarded for his understanding of compulsory purchase and compensation matters.

    • Mark brings a wealth of experience and knowledge and is always a highly reassuring presence. He delivers clear and consistent planning and environmental advice. I highly recommend him.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK
  • Band 2Robin Hutchison
    Band 2Robin Hutchison

    Robin Hutchison

    Robin Hutchison is noted for his experience handling a range of contentious and non-contentious planning and environmental matters. He has particular expertise in the energy, infrastructure and hazardous waste control sectors.

    • Robin steers the project through complex matters and achieves better outcomes with commitment and drive.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK
    • Robin is really enthusiastic, knowledgeable and at the top of his game. He is an asset to us.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK
    • Robin knows how we work and tailors solutions to the issues we are dealing with and the outcomes we want to see. He is technically very able and commercial in his decision making and advice.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK
  • Associates to watchKeith Campbell
    Associates to watchKeith Campbell

    Keith Campbell

    Keith Campbell specialises in consenting and compulsory purchase matters in relation to renewable energy and redevelopment projects.

    • Keith is an excellent lawyer.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK
    • Keith is experienced and steady.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK
    • He navigates issues well, is very personable, able and great to deal with.

      Planning & Environment respondentUK

Ranked Individuals at CMS (5)

Scotland

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