Alasdair is head of the firm’s Planning & Environment team. He is known for giving clear and commercial advice, and has a strong track record of advising and representing clients on contentious and strategically important matters. One of Scotland’s leading planning advocates, Alasdair has represented clients at hearings and public inquiries, and in court at all levels, including the Supreme Court. Alasdair has acted for landowners, developers and local authorities on the full spectrum of development planning and management matters. His key sectors include renewable energy and housebuilding. Alasdair has also successfully pursued civil claims under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and regularly advises clients on issues such as contaminated land and nuisance. Alasdair is a committee member of the Compulsory Purchase Association.
Alasdair is very approachable and offers industry leading advice with a commercial understanding.
Chambers UK, 2026
Alasdair is an excellent and personable lawyer. He is always available to answer any questions and comes up with commercial and practical solutions.
Chambers UK, 2026
Alasdair Sutherland is a very experienced legal planning professional which always makes things smoother for clients when trying to navigate through the planning system. His ability to be clear and concise in all advice is both helpful and beneficial to our company.
Legal 500 UK
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Here, we discuss how the newly enacted Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2025 requires Land Commissioners to consider natural capital markets in matters relating to land in Scotland.
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Here, we discuss the expiry of UK PFI contracts, the challenges seen in recent projects, and how early planning and collaboration can help deliver better outcomes.
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Here, we examine proposed leasehold reform in England and Wales and why Scotland’s distinct property system means the changes will not apply north of the border.
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