Unlocking Development Through Statutory Powers

We acted for a residential developer where the presence of overhead electricity lines across the site was preventing full development and materially impacting scheme viability.

The client required specialist advice to remove a significant constraint while avoiding disproportionate diversion costs that would otherwise undermine the project’s commercial returns.

We advised on and implemented the statutory procedure available under the Electricity Act 1989, including the service of the requisite notices on the electricity company. By utilising the statutory framework, we were able to establish a strong negotiating position and ensure the issue was approached on a legally robust and commercially disciplined basis.

Following service of the notices, we entered into focused negotiations with the electricity company, challenging the scope, necessity, and cost allocation associated with the overhead lines. This resulted in agreement for the underground diversion of the electricity infrastructure, removing the constraint entirely and enabling full development of the site.

As a result, the client was able to proceed with its proposed development without compromise, achieving a saving in excess of £1,000,000 when compared with the anticipated cost and value impact had the overhead lines remained. This matter demonstrates our ability to combine statutory processes with commercial negotiation to unlock development value and deliver tangible financial outcomes for clients.