Development and Planning Agreements

At Martin Shepherd Solicitors, we help landowners, developers, and other stakeholders create clear, effective agreements that guide projects from planning to completion. Our experienced team in North London and Hertfordshire ensures every detail is covered, so your development moves forward with confidence.

How We Can Help

Every development is unique, so your agreement should be too. We focus on creating contracts that reflect your goals, protect your interests, and keep your project running smoothly by:

  • Negotiating terms that balance the needs of all parties
  • Drafting clear, comprehensive agreements to prevent disputes
  • Advising on planning permissions, timelines, and key obligations
  • Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
  • Resolving issues promptly to avoid costly delays
Two colleagues discussing architectural plans in a modern office, representing legal guidance for development and planning agreements by Martin Shepherd Solicitors in Potters Bar, Hertford and North Finchley, serving North London and Hertfordshire.

Our role is to give you the legal confidence to focus on delivering a successful development.

Understanding Understanding Development and Planning Agreements

Development and planning agreements set out how a project will be delivered, the responsibilities of each party, and the protections in place if things don’t go to plan. Here are some of the key elements involved:

Roles and Responsibilities

These agreements define what each party must do, from submitting planning applications to overseeing construction. Clarity at this stage helps ensure the project progresses without unnecessary disputes.

Protecting All Parties

A well-drafted agreement safeguards everyone involved. It can give the developer authority to proceed while ensuring the landowner retains oversight, especially if they have interests in neighbouring land.

Quality and Timelines

Including clear quality standards and a timetable with key milestones keeps the project on track and ensures it meets agreed specifications and planning requirements.

Dispute Resolution and Exit Terms

Setting out how disputes will be resolved, and under what circumstances an agreement can be terminated, protects the investment and avoids costly delays.

Emotional and Practical Support

Property development can be exciting, but it can also bring pressure, deadlines, and the challenge of managing multiple parties. Our role is to make the legal side feel less daunting by guiding you through each stage with clarity and reassurance.

We combine practical advice with a personal approach, ensuring you understand your options and feel confident in every decision. By handling the complex details, we free you to focus on the bigger picture of delivering a successful project.

Above all, we are here to put your needs first.

Local, Trusted Solicitors

Successful development projects often rely on solicitors who know the local area as well as the law. We bring insight into regional planning requirements and market conditions, helping your project progress smoothly from initial concept to completion.

Working from offices in Potters Bar, Hertford, and Finchley, we support clients across North London and Hertfordshire. Whatever the scale of your development, you’ll have a legal team that is accessible, proactive, and focused on achieving your goals.

Here to Support Your Next Project

You’ve already taken steps towards your development — now let us help you navigate the legal side with clarity and care. Contact us to discuss the next stage.

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