Cornerstone Barristers recognised as leaders in the Planning Magazine Planning Law Survey 2025
Public Law and Judicial Review, Planning and Environment, Cornerstone Climate

Sixteen Cornerstone Barristers members feature in the annual Planning Magazine Planning Law Survey 2025, reaffirming chambers’ position as one of the pre-eminent sets for planning law. The annual survey – which captures nominations from solicitors, consultants, developers, and local authorities – showcases barristers who exemplify best practice and deliver exceptional outcomes for clients.
Silks
Six of our silks are ranked among the top planning barristers nationally, reflecting their strategic advocacy in the most complex infrastructure, commercial, and residential schemes.
- Richard Ground KC is ranked in the top ten planning silks nationwide.
- Tom Cosgrove KC and Michael Bedford KC have risen in this year’s rankings.
- Estelle Dehon KC retains her strong position.
- Josef Cannon KC and Harriet Townsend KC are celebrated as new entries among the top-rated planning silks.
Juniors
Our juniors continue to feature prominently:
- Returning to the top-rated list: Robert Williams, Ben Du Feu, Robin Green and Edward Grant.
- New entries include Jack Barber, Rowan Clapp, Ruchi Parekh, Ryan Kohli and Dr Alex Williams.
Under 35s
We are particularly pleased to see the next generation of planning specialists recognised:
- Jack Barber has risen up the rankings.
- Rowan Clapp, John Fitzsimons and Ben Du Feu are listed as new under-35 rising stars.
Sector-leading expertise across residential, commercial, and infrastructure
Cornerstone Barristers members also feature among the highest-rated barristers for residential, commercial, and infrastructure planning work, underlining our breadth and versatility:
- Richard Ground KC and Ed Grant are highly rated for residential.
- Richard Ground KC is further recognised for commercial and retail planning.
- Michael Bedford KC is amongst the highest-rated for infrastructure planning.
Cornerstone Barristers’ Planning Team continues to advise and represent clients on the largest and most complex development proposals, enforcement matters, and legal challenges, combining sector-leading expertise with pragmatic, responsive service.
Find out more about our Planning Team and recent work