Foot Anstey strengthens its South West presence with two new Partner appointments

National law firm Foot Anstey is pleased to be expanding its South West teams with two new Partner hires this week. James Clark and Hayley Steel mark the latest additions to the firm in its ambitious period of growth.

James Clark will be strengthening the firm’s planning and infrastructure offering in the Developer team, bringing extensive experience in both contentious and non-contentious planning matters. He is returning to the firm after a tenure at Womble Bond Dickinson. His expertise includes providing strategic planning advice, negotiating Section 106 and other infrastructure agreements, as well as representing clients in planning appeals, judicial reviews, and statutory challenges. He also offers specialist guidance on the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).

Hayley Steel is joining as a specialist non-contentious construction Partner from Clarke Willmott. Based in Southampton and supporting the firm across its wider geographical footprint, Hayley’s experience includes working with developers and housebuilders, with a special focus on later living and retirement, as well as delivering major infrastructure, clean energy, and nuclear projects. She has advised some of the UK’s largest retail and consumer businesses so has much insight to bring to bear.

Commenting on his appointment, James said: “Foot Anstey has a strong reputation for its developer-focused work, and I’m delighted to rejoin the team. I look forward to contributing to the team’s growth and leveraging my experience to deliver exceptional results for our clients.”

Commenting on her appointment, Hayley said: "This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing firm and be a part of an incredibly talented team. I'm looking forward to building strong partnerships with clients and helping drive their projects forward."