Council starts search for legal adviser on flagship regeneration scheme

A borough council in the South of England has kicked off the selection process for a legal adviser for the initial stages of a flagship regeneration scheme.

Surrey Heath Borough Council is seeking to appoint a legal practice “to provide advice to support the appointment of a development partner” for the redevelopment of the London Road Block in Camberley town centre.

The development is seen as a priority for the authority and will form part of a “strategy to enhance the range of town centre services, environment and promote further economic development in the area”.

The site forms a key part of the implementation of the spatial strategy for the Town Centre Area Action Plan, providing what Surrey Heath sees as the most appropriate opportunity to improve significantly the town centre’s retail attractions.

The council is seeking to appoint a legal practice with extensive experience in:

• The negotiation and delivery of development agreements for major town centre retail-led schemes;
• The preparation of compulsory purchase orders; and
• Re-gearing head lease interests in shopping centres.

The chosen adviser will work closely with the council’s appointed commercial property adviser, and internal project team and will take a lead role in the legal negotiations during the contract stage.

Law firms have until 4 pm on 16 November to apply to be included in Surrey Heath Borough Council’s shortlist of a maximum six firms.

Neasa MacErlean