Efforts to combat climate change are increasingly taking place in the Courts and through the planning system. We have been at the forefront of these efforts.

Despite the dire warnings about climate change and the need for changes of approach in so much of what we are used to, in many areas “business as usual” continues without any sign that government or businesses have appreciated the urgent action required. We have been instructed in high-profile climate change cases and planning matters relating to coal mines, fracking, and major road schemes. But climate impacts are an increasingly important factor in all sorts of decisions, from new housing developments to transport projects, to waste disposal facilities.

Major project experience includes:

  • Appearing for objectors at public inquiries into new coal mines in Whitehaven, Cumbria and Druridge Bay, Northumberland.
  • Representing those challenging proposals for fracking and other onshore oil and gas development in High Court challenges and in the Court of Appeal.
  • Successfully challenging major road scheme decisions such as the A38 Derby Junctions Scheme and the M62 Smart Motorway Project based on failures to properly assess climate change impacts.