Russell Harris KC

Practice Areas

Russell specialises in planning and environmental work. He is now involved in most of the UKs highest-profile development schemes.

Russell is particularly experienced in preparing for and acting at large public inquiries. He is noted for his ability to understand large volumes of technical evidence, to formulate effective cross-examination of expert witnesses and to present a client’s case clearly and effectively.

Russell has appeared in almost all of the recent Tall Building inquiries and has developed a special expertise in presenting cases involving world-class architects and architecture. Thus, Russell has successfully acted for the developers of “The Shards of Glass” by Renzo Piano, the Heron Tower, by Lee Polisano, The Minerva Tower by Nicolas Grimshaw, 20 Fenchurch Street by Rafael Vinoly, The Beetham Tower Blackfriars by Ian Simpson, Founder’s Place by Sir Terry Farrell and Vauxhall Towers site by Michael Squires. He also acted on the development of the Gherkin which did not need an Inquiry.

Russell advised on the redevelopment of Battersea Power Station and is advising on Bishopsgate Goods Yard, the largest remaining City redevelopment site. He continues to advise on football stadia for Spurs, Fulham, Luton, and Brentford.

Russell sits on the Wales Assembly Government Planning Forum. He has been appointed a Special Advocate by the Attorney General and is a Bencher and trustee of Gray’s Inn.

When not at work, he spends most of his time on the Atlantic Ocean. He is also a WRU rugby coach.