Merrett & Co is a niche practice, dedicated solely to planning, local government and environmental law issues. Our aim is to provide you with speedy and pragmatic advice, to save you time and money. Formed in 1995, Merrett & Co's lawyers have a wealth of relevant experience in planning, local government and environmental law. We provide the ‘inside track’; all of our lawyers have worked in local government, know the processes involved and have strong working relationships with local government contacts. Our working methods are flexible; we work at our offices but our lawyers are also used to working at our client’s premises on an open ‘clinic’ basis or on secondments. We work on one-off jobs, longer term assignments and for major projects – if required – we can call on freelance members of staff who work with the team when needed. Our overheads are low; therefore our charging rates compare very favourably with larger firms. We charge one blended hourly rate covering all levels of experience and are willing to discuss retainer arrangements for larger projects. Merrett & Co acts for a range of corporate and private clients, from house builders and developers, chemical and oil companies, to private land and property owners. Whatever the client, our philosophy is the same; we pride ourselves on providing cost-effective and practical solutions to problems. We offer a comprehensive range of planning and compulsory purchase services, covering all aspects, including advocacy for High Court and Secretary of State appeals, judicial reviews and other High Court challenges. Our property services range from handling site acquisitions and disposals, and green and brown field development, to the granting and taking of leases, and neighbour and boundary disputes. We also advise on environmental and licensing issues, such as nuisance actions, defending water/air pollution prosecutions, regulatory issues concerning waste and IPPC, and entertainment licence applications.