Our aim is that clients should receive an integrated service focused on the ownership, management and maximisation of their land assets. For example, there is always a need to ensure that what may be the best solution to a property problem will not inadvertently produce disadvantageous tax results.

The team advises on all types of agricultural property work, with an emphasis on estate management and land assets. This includes the buying and selling of farms and residential properties, as well as the granting of business leases and farm business tenancies and the use of contract farming arrangements. We are also finding an increased interest again on the part of landowners who are looking to enter into arrangements to secure the future of their land through the sale or promotion of strategic land, often linked to a share of future uplifts in the value of land. Although our agriculture practice is mainly non-contentious, we have a strong presence in the insolvency sector, handling many farms and farming companies' insolvency issues.

Clients include a wide range of landowners, in particular a large number of the major landed estates in the South West which together own in excess of 50,000 acres. We also act for house builders and high net worth individuals who look to us for advice on a wide range of property matters.

"This efficient firm is perceived by peers to approach agricultural law from a highly commercial angle."
Chambers and Partners 2003

• acting for NHP (UK) Limited in the purchase of the Cokenach Estate, a mixed agricultural, commercial and residential estate in Hertfordshire and also in relation to the subsequent acquisition by it of the Anstey Hall Estate
• acting for a national farming company in the acquisition by it of a portfolio of managed farms
• re-structuring of arrangements for existing clients to enable them to benefit from opportunities arising under the Single Farm Payment scheme

Robert Drewett
t +44 (0)117 917 3098
robert.drewett@osborneclarke.com