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
Related Insights
Error.
No results.
Building and fire safety after Grenfell: the criminal process
11/09/2026
This blog explores the Grenfell criminal investigation, and what it could mean for corporate liability, senior management accountability, and safety governance.
Build-to-rent in Scotland: the impact of building safety
11/09/2026
Successful Scottish BTR delivery will depend on embedding building safety compliance and levy risk into funding, procurement and programme planning from the outset.
Wildfires and the right of responsible access: Understanding Scotland's laws on fires and barbeques
31/07/2026
Following Scotland's recent wildfires, we examine the legal rules on fires and barbecues, including access rights, byelaws, restrictions and the responsibilities of outdoor users.
{name}
{properties.pageSummary}
{properties.headline}
{properties.pageDate|date:dd/MM/yyyy}
{properties.shortDescription}
