Search

John is a specialist planning lawyer with extensive experience of providing commercial and practical planning and highways advice to developers; promoters; landowners; and local planning authorities. He has particular expertise in relation to drafting and negotiating complex Section 106 Agreements; advising on Community Infrastructure Levy; and contentious planning matters including Judicial Review, Section 288 challenges; Appeals and planning enforcement.

John has extensive experience of working with local authority officers and members and other public bodies, acting as legal adviser at planning committee meetings, providing support at Public Inquiries and appearing in the Magistrates’ Court in relation to enforcement matters.

John began his career in local government and led the Planning & Litigation Team at Warwickshire County Council before moving into private practice in 2017, where he headed up the planning team at a Midlands law firm before joining Weightmans in 2024.

Services:

  • John is really good - I couldn't speak highly enough of him. We don't have to chase him at all; he is proactive and gets our agreements negotiated. He's one of the best solicitors I have worked with.

    Chambers and Partners 2025

  • John is responsive, supportive, diligent and has always delivered for us.

    Chambers and Partners 2025

  • John is the best for Section 106 agreements. He knows the law like the back of his hand and gives solid advice on every occasion.

    Chambers and Partners 2025

Notable cases

Advised a consortium of 5 local authorities in relation to their parliamentary petitions and select committee appearances in relation to HS2, helping to secure amendments to the scheme and important mitigation measures, including a new primary school.

Provided strategic planning advice and dealt with a section 106 agreement on behalf of an applicant for the development of land in Warwickshire for 1,700 new homes houses; a new secondary school; and leisure and health facilities.

Advised an investor on a complex waste, recycling and food digestion plant; successfully resolving various enforcement issues and securing a certificate of lawfulness.

Advised on planning matters relating to the acquisition of an International Science Park.

Acted for the claimant in relation to a High Court challenge to the Secretary of State’s decision to refuse planning consent for a major new Data Centre.

Advised a District Council on its plans to develop a new Community Stadium and associated commercial and residential development.

Advised landowners in relation to the development of their land for 2000 new dwellings.

Advised a local planning authority on the adoption of its new local plan and CIL Charging Schedule.

Acted for a local planning authority in relation to several Public Inquiries for major housing developments.