HB The Legal Corner Magazine #Issue 11

April 2025 - Transition

EXPLORING THE LATEST TRENDS AND DEVELOPMENTS IN PROPERTY & CORPORATE LAW

Transition

CONTENTS

Introduction By Vijay Parikh, Managing Partner

The Shape of Property Transactions in 2025 By Paul Oliff, Partner Real Estate

#TRENDS: What's in for Interior Design in 2025 - The importance of Integrating Technologies By Laurence Katz of Elemental Studio

Reflections of the Past and Vision for the Future By Vijay Parikh, Managing Partner

Q&A: Understanding the Planning Process for Residential Development By James McConnell of McConnell Planning & Christian Le Gouais, Partner Development & Planning

LAFRA 2024: A Significant Step Forward By Nisha Patel, Senior Associate Solicitor Leasehold Enfranchisement

HB Case Study - Refinance

Engineering the Future: Building a Sustainable Industry By Gauri T alathi-Lamb, CEO FHP Group

A fond farewell to Andy Finkel

HB Recent Events YPN and MIPIM

Stay up to date with the latest news & editions. Follow Harold Benjamin on our social media!

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@hb_solicitors

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In this issue Spring is a time of transition—a season where the old makes way for the new, where fresh ideas take root, and where we embrace both endings and beginnings. In this issue, we discuss trends in the property space, the impact of legal reforms and the arrival of new faces at Harold Benjamin. We bid farewell to esteemed colleagues who have left their mark, while also celebrating those joining us on this journey. With the legal sector in constant motion, we explore what’s in, what’s out, and what’s next—whether it’s sustainable developments, AI-driven innovations, or the latest in leasehold reform. We are thankful to our guest contributors as always—in this edition, Laurence Katz and Gauri Talathi-Lamb who have kindly shared their expertise in discussing the impact of technology and the future of sustainable development. I hope you enjoy our latest issue, and as always, our team at Harold Benjamin is here to support you through the challenges ahead.

VIJAY PARIKH Managing Partner

vijay.parikh@haroldbenjamin.com

Connect with Vijay

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THE

OF PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS IN 2025 In this article Paul Olliff, partner in the commercial property team, discusses trends that stakeholders in the property space can expect this year.

BY PAUL OLLIFF Partner, Real Estate

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This is because office-to-residential conversions are often the subject of serious developmental problems, and on-going disputes over service charges and maintenance. For those involved in this, the nuances of building regulations, lease structures, and financing are critical.

Paul recently joined Harold Benjamin from Fieldfisher and advises HNW individuals, developers and institutional investors in complex transactions. These include ac- quisitions, disposals, landlord and tenant work, and structured finance. More recent - ly, Paul’s focus has shifted to investment, airspace developments, mixed-use develop- ment schemes, and acting for retail clients.

Sustainability and ESG

As the real estate market continues to evolve, so too must the approach to property management advice. Sustainability and ESG considerations are becoming increasingly important. For example, courts have found that adopting an approach to having an occupier mix is valid. There is no reason to suggest this cannot extend to sustainability considerations.

Airspace Development

Airspace development when urban space is at a premium has been an exciting new area for developers, who are increasingly looking upwards to unlock the value of unused rooftops. It allows for the creation of new floors and residential units without the need for additional land, making it an attractive solution in high- density areas like London. This type of development inevitably comes with its own set of legal complexities, including rights of light, freeholder consents, structural integrity concerns, and planning requirements, which require specialist knowledge. Nevertheless, we are likely to see more of this type of development as the need for space and the cost of land remains an area of conflict.

Conclusion

Space, cost and regulations continue to play their part in driving trends.

It remains important for those looking to maximise their value and return on investment to ensure that these changes are approached in a commercial and pragmatic manner.

Office-to-Residential Conversions

paul.olliff@haroldbenjamin.com

Office-to-residential remains another important way for developers to maximise value. The shift towards hybrid working especially has left many office spaces underutilised. With changes to permitted development rights a decade ago, the process has become more streamlined, but there are still legal and planning considerations to address.

Connect with Paul

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#TRENDS

What's in for Interior Design in 2025 The importance of Integrating Technologies

BY LAURENCE KATZ Elemental Studio

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As property developers and construction specialists aim to create future-proof homes, integrating smart technologies early in the design process is no longer a luxury—it's an expectation. From energy efficiency to seamless automation, smart home innovations enhance convenience, sustainability and functionality. Here are the key technologies shaping modern living spaces and why they should be prioritised from the outset.

Smart Home Automation Systems

The latest smart home automation systems provide homeowners with seamless control over lighting, security, climate and appliances. Industry leaders include Control4, and Google Nest Wifi. Selecting scalable, user-friendly systems is key to future-proofing properties and gives a competitive edge on the market.

Advanced Lighting Solutions

Lighting also plays a crucial role in creating comfortable, energy-efficient spaces. There are cutting-edge solutions a-plenty, ranging from products that can control over 10,000 devices, through to synchronised lighting experiences and human-centric lighting, which mimics natural sunlight patterns. These types of solutions offer not just better design features, but may also prove beneficial to well-being. Integrating smart lighting enhances aesthetics, energy efficiency and wellness within living spaces and helps with mental health, particularly in countries where there’s a lack of sun.

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"Robots will become increasingly integrated into our daily lives. Homebuilders are already rethinking how to create

Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS)

Sustainability and energy efficiency are paramount in modern developments. These systems help reduce energy costs while supporting renewable energy integration. This is particularly helpful in a world where energy prices are rather unstable. Leading HEMS include products such as EcoFlow Oasis which utilises AI for real-time energy optimisation, potentially reducing energy costs and improving overall efficiency, and Savant Smart Budget which prevents electrical overloading while maximising energy efficiency, ensuring safe and optimal energy use throughout the home. Others are also available.

living spaces that accomodate these high-tech helpers."

Home Security Innovations

Home security has evolved, with advanced systems offering seamless protection. The top security solutions include Simplisafe and the well-known Ring Alarm. These use technology to provide affordable and versatile security cameras and alarms which can be operated remotely, via apps.

The Rise of AI and Voice Control

AI-powered voice control is revolutionising smart home experiences through several key advances. The technology now boasts improved natural language processing, enabling more accurate voice recognition and seamless communication between users and their smart devices. Expanded Internet of Things (IoT) integration is also enhancing automation capabilities, allowing for more comprehensive control over various home systems and appliances. Smart homes are becoming increasingly intelligent, with predictive and context-aware systems that can anticipate user needs and preferences, creating a more personalised living environment. The integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) is further opening up new possibilities for innovative home inter- actions, blending the physical and digital worlds in unprecedented ways.

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As the field continues to evolve, developers should carefully consider these advancements when designing next-generation smart homes to create more intuitive, efficient living spaces for users.

To keep robots charged and ready for action, homeowners are incorporating dedicated charging stations or "robot docks" into their designs. These are often cleverly concealed in discreet locations, such as custom slots within closets, maintaining a clutter-free appearance while ensuring robots are always prepared for their next task.

Adaptive Furniture and Smart Fixtures

Future homes will feature smart, responsive furniture with shape-shifting and modular designs, such as sofas that transform into beds or desks, enhancing usability. Integrated smart technology, including posture-correcting chairs and desks with wireless charging, will also be common. Biometric personalisation could allow beds to adjust firmness based on sleep patterns, and sustainability will be addressed with eco- friendly materials and energy-efficient designs.

Why Early Planning is Essential

The implementation of smart home technologies should not be an afterthought. Developers must integrate these innovations at the planning stage to ensure seamless installation and operation. Many of these technologies require first-fix installations, well before finishes are applied. By prioritising these considerations early, developers can future-proof their properties, enhance value, and cater to evolving consumer expectations.

These innovations support the growing demand for multi-functional living spaces.

Conclusion

Designing Homes for the Robot Revolution

Smart home technology is not just a trend; it's the future of property development. By incorporating automation, energy efficiency, security and adaptive design into new builds, developers can create modern, sustainable, and highly desirable living spaces. The key is early integration—ensuring that technology is embedded in a way that enhances both function and aesthetics for years to come.

Robots will become increasingly integrated into our daily lives. Homebuilders and interior designers are already rethinking how to create living spaces that accommodate these high-tech helpers. The latest trends in home design focus on creating environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also ro- bot-friendly, such as accommodating robotic cleaners.

When it comes to furniture, the key is accessibility and flexibility, eg, choosing

pieces with legs, allowing cleaning robots to easily navigate underneath. This design choice ensures thorough cleaning while maintaining a stylish appearance. Additionally, homeowners are opting for furniture that can be effortlessly moved or rearranged by robotic assistants, providing greater versatility in living spaces. Layout and space planning are also crucial considerations in robot-friendly homes. Open floor plans with wide hallways are becoming increasingly popular, as they facilitate smooth navigation for robotic devices. This design choice not only benefits robots but also creates a more spacious and airier feel for human inhabitants.

laurence@elementalstudio.co.uk

Connect with Laurence

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Reflections on the Past and Vision for the Future

BY VIJAY PARIKH Managing Partner

A Legacy of Growth and Transformation

As we move further into 2025, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey of the past six years – years of challenge, growth, and transformation for both Harold Benjamin and the wider legal industry. It is with immense gratitude and optimism that I step into my second term as Managing Partner, reaffirming my commitment to the continued success and evolution of our firm. The legal landscape has undergone significant shifts, shaped by economic changes, technological advancements, and evolving client expectations. Through it all, Harold Benjamin has not only adapted but thrived. Our firm has grown in both size and capability, reinforcing our standing as a trusted partner for businesses and individuals navigating the complexities of commercial real estate law.

The last six years have been a period of deliberate and strategic expansion. We have strengthened our position in the market by investing in key practice areas such as insolvency and restructuring, banking and finance, and international transactions. Through these efforts, we have ensured that our clients receive comprehensive and forward-thinking legal solutions that meet their evolving needs. Our growth has been both substantial and meaningful. Over the past six years, we have expanded by more than 50% - a testament to our strategic vision, the dedication of our talented team, and the trust our clients place in us. However, this growth has never been about numbers alone. Every step forward has been underpinned

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Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for Harold Benjamin

by a commitment to quality, integrity, and client service. We have onboarded more new clients in recent years than at any other time in our firm’s history, and our reputation continues to strengthen.

While it is important to celebrate past achievements, the true excitement lies in what’s ahead. My vision for the next six years is one of continued progress, which is built on innovation, investment in our people, and a commitment to exceptional client service. Technology will remain a key enabler of efficiency, allowing us to refine our processes and enhance the client experience. We will also focus on developing the next generation of legal talent, ensuring that Harold Benjamin remains a firm where

Key Milestones and Memorable Moments

Several standout moments de- fine the progress we have made:

A new home for innovation: Our move into a modern, 8,000 sq. ft. office in 2019 marked a pivotal moment in our journey. This space was designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and efficiency – qualities that remain central to our culture. A reinvented identity: Our rebranding efforts have helped position Harold Benjamin as a forward-thinking, dynamic law firm, reinforcing our values and market presence. Celebrating 70 years: Reaching this milestone was a proud moment symbolising our deep roots, rich history and con- tinued commitment to excellence. Global learning and leadership: Attending the Law Firm Management Program at Harvard University in Boston last year was an invaluable experience that reinforced my belief in continuous learning and innovation as drivers for success.

ambition is nurtured, and excellence is the standard.

Our mission remains clear: to build on our strengths,

embrace new opportunities, and continue evolving as a firm that delivers results, inspires trust, and leads with purpose. To our clients, colleagues and partners – thank you. Your support, collaborations, and confidence in our work have been instrumental in shaping our success. I look forward to the years ahead knowing that together, we will continue to achieve great things.

vijay.parikh@haroldbenjamin.com

Connect with Vijay

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"Celebrating 70 years was a proud moment symbolising our roots, rich history and continued commitment to excellence."

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&A BY JAMES MCCONNELL MRTPI McConnell Planning Understanding the Planning Process for Residential Development

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James McConnell MRTPI, of McConnell Planning, discusses the impact of the new government’s housebuilding target this year for developers, and how to navigate the planning process, with Christian Le Gouais, Head of Planning and Development at Har- old Benjamin. 1. What is the Labour government’s housebuilding target, and how does it affect landowners? The new Labour government has set a challenging housebuilding target of 1.5 million new homes during its maximum 5-year tenure. It has revised how local housing need is calculated, which significantly increases the level of housing that local authorities must plan for. Each authority is then required to produce a Lo- cal Plan to achieve the required levels of housing supply.

"It is important to negotiate the terms of any S106 legal agreement supporting the planning permission as

2. How can landowners promote their land for residential development?

If you have identified land that you consider could be suitable for residential development, it is important to maximise this opportunity by promoting the land through the Local Plan to be prepared by the relevant local authority. This should be done at the earliest stage possible. The process often begins with a ‘Call for Sites,’ where local authorities ask for details to be submitted of potential residential land- development opportunities.

early in the process as possible."

3. What steps should I take before submitting a planning application?

If you secure an allocation for residential development in the Local Plan and want to submit a planning application—or if you plan to make a speculative application for land not allocated—it is important to engage with the local authority on the proposed planning application before submission. All local authorities offer a pre-application planning advice service, which is a chargeable service

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7. How can I ensure flexibility in my planning application?

linked to the scale of the development. This provides the opportunity to discuss the details of the application with the local authority, which is crucial, as many authorities will not enter into detailed negotiations once an application has been submitted.

One important consideration when making a planning application is keeping the application as non-prescriptive as possible, as this can increase the scope for changes after consent has been granted.

4. What is a Planning Performance Agreement, and how does it help?

8. Why is early negotiation of an S106 legal agreement important?

There is also the opportunity to enter into a Planning Performance Agreement with the local authority. This is a chargeable service, but it essentially acts as a contract between the applicant and the local authority, C overing the timescale for determining a planning application. It can cover pre- application discussions through to the completion of a Section 106 (S106) legal agreement, which is usually the final stage before planning permission is granted.

It is important to negotiate the terms of any S106 legal agreement supporting the planning permission as early in the process as possible. Local authorities are under no obligation to renegotiate the terms of an S106 agreement for a five-year period.

james@mcconnellplanning.co.uk

5. Can planning permission be amended after it has been granted?

Connect with James

christian.legouais@haroldbenjamin.com

Once planning permission has been granted, landowners often wish to amend their application. The planning system allows for some flexibility in making amendments. This can be done either through a Non-Material Amendment under S96A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 or a Minor Material Amendment through S73 of the 1990 Act, depending on the scope of the change sought.

Connect with Christian

6. What is the difference between S96A and S73 amendments?

S96A applications are more limited in their scope than S73 applications and cover matters that do not generate any new material planning considerations. They are not a planning application and can therefore be determined quickly. Unlike S73 applications, they do not result in a new planning permission being issued. However, neither process can be used to extend the time period for implementing a planning permission.

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A Significant Step Forward LAFRA

BY NISHA PATEL Senior Associate Solicitor, Leasehold Enfranchisement

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A 2024

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"No change is without complications and it has become apparent that practical problems related to the registration gap may still scupper any progress." for leaseholders when remortgaging or selling their existing property in circumstances where the lease has fallen below the marriage value. This often results in lenders being unwilling to lend. The marriage value is a concept used by surveyors when valuing a property. If the unexpired term of the lease remains above 80 years at the time the lease extension application is made, the Marriage Value is nil. However, if the lease term drops below 80 years, surveyors take this into account and the premium calculation is usually higher. The premium is the sum payable to the landlord for the extension of the lease term.

The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 (LAFRA) received Royal Assent in May 2024, marking a significant step in the ongoing reform of leasehold and freehold property law in England and Wales. LAFRA introduced fundamental changes to the legal process with a view to making the residential leasehold reform easier, cheaper, fairer and transparent for leaseholders wanting to extend their leases and buy their freeholds. Although promising, LAFRA requires secondary legislation to be in place before core elements can be implemented. In this article, Nisha Patel, who has recently joined Harold Benjamin from her previous practice where she was the Head of Department for Residential Lease Extensions, discusses whether changes can be expected to be implemented this year, or if the issues will be as intractable as ever.

The Step Forward

Earlier this year, regulations to support the implementation of section 27 of LAFRA were introduced. This marked a significant shift suggesting that some movement can be expected this coming year. Section 27 abolishes the two-year ownership rule for lease extensions of houses and flats and the right to acquire the freehold of houses under existing legislation. This has proved necessary because, historically, leaseholders of both flats and houses were required to be the registered owner of their property for a minimum of two years before being able to extend the lease of their flat or house, or purchase the freehold. This requirement has been a cause of frustration for new homeowners when purchasing a new leasehold property, and

Section 27 of the Act removes the ownership time limits on leasehold

applications. This is significant because it provides leaseholders with greater flexibility, promotes the lease extension process by removing one of the few barriers, and marks a step forward for leaseholders.

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Practice Points to Note

However, no change is without its complications and it has become apparent that practical problems related to the ‘registration gap’ may still scupper any progress. The registration gap is the time lag between the completion of a transaction and the official registration of the transaction by the Land Reg- istry. Lease extensions require the leaseholder to be the registered owner of the flat at the time the lease extension is applied for. Currently, the Land Registry is struggling to cope with demand for registrations, causing delays in processing. During this ‘gap’ period, leaseholders who have purchased a property are unable to exercise their rights under LAFRA immediately. Until they are registered at Land Registry as the registered proprietors, they cannot be considered to be flat owners for the purposes of the legislation. The practical difficulty of delayed registration has a detrimental effect on lease extensions with a lease term approaching the marriage value of 80 years. Previously, the seller had to serve a Section 42 notice on the landlord, and then assign this right to a buyer. With Section 27 of LAFRA, this would become less common as the two-year time frame will be scrapped. However, sellers are still required to be registered at the Land Registry as the le- gal owner to initiate any process. Therefore, due to the practical challenges presented by the gap between completion and registration, buy- ers may require sellers to adopt the previous approach, especially where the lease term has fallen or will fall below 80 years. At that point the buyer is more than likely to pay a higher premium to extend the lease term, especially if he waits for registration of the purchase to complete.

Spring 2025 should see provisions introduced to expand access to the Right to Manage. There will be consultations taking place this summer on service charges and the valuation rates used to calculate lease extension and enfranchise- ment premiums with a view to further reforms being implemented later. In the second half of 2025, we should see a draft Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill published, which is expected to include the banning of ground rent and forfeiture, so watch this space!

In Conclusion

The abolition of the two-year ownership rule is an important step towards reforming the lease- hold system. How and when other reforms take effect remains to be seen.

What’s Next?

nisha.patel@haroldbenjamin.com

The Housing Minister, Matthew Pennycook, has stated that work will continue to implement the rest of the measures outlined in LAFRA.

Connect with Nisha

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HB Case Study:

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We acted for a UK Bank (GB Bank) with respect to the refinance of existing borrowing through a legal charge over 24 flats valued at £7 million. Working under tight timelines, our team, consisting of Rima Sengupta, John Oliver Bellasis, and Jai Sharma, collaborated closely with the bank to meet its requirements and refinancing process. Throughout the transaction, we remained focused on delivering a smooth and timely completion. Our ability to work under pressure while maintaining the highest standards of legal and regulatory compliance

At Harold Benjamin, our Banking and Finance team brings a wealth of experience in handling complex refinancing transactions. Our in-depth knowledge of lender requirements, combined with a pragmatic and detail-oriented approach, enables us to deliver effective solutions for clients seeking to optimise their financial position. This successful transaction reflects our commitment to providing expert guidance and achieving positive outcomes, even under challenging circumstances.

rima.sengupta@haroldbenjamin.com

was important in successfully securing the £7 million loan.

Connect with Rima

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Engineering the Future: Building a Sustainable Industry

BY GAURI T ALATHI-LAMB CEO of FHP Group

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As the leader of an engineering consultancy which has been in business for more than five decades and with seven offices across the UK and Ireland, I’ve seen our industry transform significantly. Our work in mechanical, electrical, public health, sustainability, and energy has never been more critical. With new regulations, client expectations, and the race toward decarbonisation, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year.

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Retail Parks and Warehouses: A Revival with Opportunity

One fact stands out: energy used to heat and power commercial buildings accounts for around 12% of the UK’s carbon emissions annually. This underscores why upgrading our existing building stock is critical—not just for landlords but for achieving national climate goals.

Retail spaces took a hit during the pandemic, but out-of-town retail parks and destination shopping centres are making a comeback. With many of these sites combining retail, leisure, and dining, they present significant opportunities for energy upgrades. The warehouse and industrial sectors are equally active, driven by lease renewals and EPC requirements. However, these projects often demand creative problem-solving. Many landlords overlook basic building fabric improvements, putting the onus on consultants like us to find innovative ways to meet energy performance targets. The industrial property market is growing, with a 6% year-on-year increase. Nearly 40% of landlords have flagged energy efficiency as a top priority in the next year.

Energy Efficiency: Meeting New Standards

Energy efficiency has become a top priority for landlords as we approach the 2030 deadline, which requires buildings to achieve at least a B EPC rating. It’s estimated that 15% of commercial properties could become unlettable if they don’t meet these requirements. This has sparked a surge in investment and upgrades, as landlords seek to avoid stranded assets in their portfolios. One of the most significant shifts is the adoption of heat pumps and energy efficient systems, critical for reducing carbon emissions. However, retrofitting and upgrades can be challenging. At times, functional systems are replaced solely to meet EPC targets, which raises concerns about waste and long-term sustainability. At our consultancy, we pride ourselves on helping clients use their existing buildings more efficiently, avoiding the need to rip out and start again. This approach reduces unnecessary waste, keeps costs in check, and minimises the carbon footprint of projects. Our EPC Plus approach addresses these challenges by looking beyond short-term compliance. It integrates energy efficiency with future-focused designs, helping landlords not only meet today’s standards but also ensure their buildings remain viable in the future.

Healthcare, Housing, and Public Sector Projects

Refurbishments are on the rise in healthcare facilities, student accommodations, and public sector buildings. Local councils often have access to decarbonisation funding but lack the expertise to implement these plans effectively. This is where we, as consultants, step in—offering practical solutions to turn ambitious goals into reality. One standout example is the Ministry of Justice’s prison refurbishment projects, which highlight the growing role of the public sector in sustainability. These projects show that even traditionally overlooked areas are starting to prioritise energy efficiency and decarbonisation. A growing trend we’ve seen is the conversion of offices into residential use. These projects, which were once sidelined, are firmly back on the agenda for many landlords. They repre- sent a practical way to adapt underperforming assets while addressing housing shortages—a win-win.

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Challenges on the Ground

What’s Next for 2025?

The economic landscape is shifting, with rising interest rates and uncertainty impacting transactional movements. However, tenant and government demand for better energy performance is pushing landlords to act. For instance, 25% of tenants now refuse to lease buildings rated below a C, accelerating the pace of upgrades. While we’re seeing opportunities emerge, they often come with tighter budgets and shorter timelines. Despite this, there are reasons to be optimistic. The construction sector grew by 0.8% in Q3 2024, and business confidence in construction hit a three-year high, according to the ICAEW. "It's estimated that 15% of commercial properties could become unlettable if they don't meet the 2030 deadline which requires buildings to achieve at least a B EPC rating."

Looking ahead, a few trends stand out:

1. Energy-focused innovation: Stricter EPC requirements are driving smarter, more sustainable designs. 2. Retrofitting over rebuilding: Helping clients enhance their portfolios with minimal carbon impact. 3. Retail and industrial growth: The resurgence of retail parks and industrial units is fuelling energy upgrades. 4. Public sector leadership: Decarbonisation efforts in public sector projects, such as prison refurbishments, are setting the tone for broader change. These insights don’t come from an economist’s perspective or an analyst’s desk— they’re grounded in what we’re seeing every day as an SME working at the coalface of the industry. The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. Our work is about more than compliance; it’s about building a sustainable future with crea- tive building services design. As we tackle the 2030 goals, we’re helping landlords and clients ensure their assets remain viable and aligned with evolving regulations. By embracing innovation and sustainability, we’re not just keeping up with change—we’re driving it.

g.lamb@fhpgroup.com

Connect with Gauri

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A fond farewell to Andy Finkel

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One of Andy’s greatest sources of pride has been the loyalty of clients. Many have returned to him time and again, trusting his expertise and no-nonsense approach. "I must be doing something right, or they wouldn’t come back.” His ability to balance robust legal advice with a touch of humour made him not only a trusted solicitor but also a well-liked colleague. One memorable email exchange sums up his style—after a solicitor thanked him by mistakenly writing "many tanks", Andy quipped back, "How many? There is only limited space in the car park." More than anything, Andy will miss working closely with his colleague Manjit, with whom he has collaborated for over 11 years. He will also miss the camaraderie at the firm— whether it’s the football banter or the overall sense of mutual respect and tolerance. "I do like the ambience here," he reflects. "There’s a great degree of tolerance, and as far as I can tell, diversity has never been an issue— it’s a meritorious and noteworthy workplace." As he steps into retirement, Andy is looking forward to a well-earned break. His plans include exercising, decluttering, spending time with friends, and indulging in his pas- sion for poetry, with the hope of getting some of his work published. He also intends to travel, exploring both the UK and parts of Europe that he and his wife haven’t visited yet—though he jokes that he’s "not hitchhik- ing across the Andes just yet. For those continuing at the firm, Andy leaves a simple but crucial piece of advice: "Read the documents! Know who you are acting for and where your responsibility ends. Give the client the choice rather than making assumptions." As Andy moves on to this exciting new phase, we extend our deepest gratitude for his years of service, his expertise, and his humour. He has been an integral part of Harold Benja- min, and while he (and his annual Christmas poem!) will certainly be missed, we wish him all the best for the future.

After more than a decade at Harold Benjamin, Andy Finkel is moving towards a well-earned retirement. His contribution to the firm has been both significant and deeply valued. From his expertise in residential property to his leadership in lease extensions and enfranchisement, Andy has left a lasting impact. As he embarks on a new chapter, we reflect on his journey, his achievements, and his plans for the future. Andy’s association with Harold Benjamin began in 2013, following the merger of his previous firm, Ireland Abrahams, with Harold Benjamin. He had originally joined his previous practice in 2004, invited by his long-time friends Jeffrey and Stella Abrahams. In 2009, Andy stepped into the role of Managing Partner. Jeff developed leukaemia in 2011 and, sadly, passed away the following year. The emotional strain of continuing without his close friend led Andy and Stella to seek a new path. The merger with Harold Benjamin offered that opportunity, and on 30th September 2013, Andy, alongside Stella and another colleague Manjit Dhanda, transitioned to the firm where Andy joined as a partner. Moving from running his own practice to being part of a larger, more structured organisation was an adjustment. As Andy describes it, "It was like going from piloting a microlight to being a crew member on a jumbo jet." Though he had to adapt to new ways of working, the move allowed him to focus on his legal expertise rather than the pressures of managing a firm. Andy quickly became the firm’s go-to expert on lease extensions and enfranchisement, managing 50–100 cases at any given time. His meticulous approach and commitment to efficiency led to significant changes in how these matters were handled, including a shift towards paperless working long before it became the norm. "I wouldn’t have thought about it 10 years ago, but by the time lockdown came, new files were already paper-free in my area, and it didn’t cause much friction for me when we were required to do this as a matter of course during the Covid-19 crisis." Andy was also part of the team involved in rolling out paperless working throughout the firm.

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EVEN

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NTS Harold Benjamin’s Young Professionals Network Hosts First-Ever Question Time

Harold Benjamin’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) recently hosted its first- ever Question Time, featuring Partners Ray Oshry, David Eder, and Varsha Sood; Trainee Solicitor Patrick Browne; Legal Director Sarju Kotecha; and our newest Partner, Paul Olliff. Questions ranged from “What change would you like to see in the industry?” to “Which member of Harold Benjamin would you choose to be stranded with on a desert island?” Needless to say, our Head of Operations Jamie Abrahams was a popular choice! To break the ice, panellists took part in a game inspired by Would I Lie to You?, where they each shared three statements—two false and one true. The audience had to guess the real fact. Who would have thought that among our expert legal minds, we have a former royal scone baker and two martial artists? Proof that at Harold Benjamin we fight for our clients both in and out of the courtroom!

The YPN aims to foster collaboration among early-career professionals by bringing together lawyers, surveyors, agents, barristers, brokers, and more. It provides a platform for networking, business development, and knowledge- sharing, helping members stay informed on industry trends and discover new opportunities. Through interaction, YPN builds confidence, enhances social skills, and develops lasting professional relationships. At Harold Benjamin, YPN has hosted a variety of successful events, from informal networking drinks to speed networking (aka speed-dating in the boardroom!) and quiz nights. If you would like to find out more about the YPN, you can connect with us on LinkedIn or contact Rukhsar or Sunil at rukhsar.aziz@haroldbenjamin.com and sunil.vaghji@haroldbenjamin.com.

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MIPIM 2025

stunning seaside views, provided the perfect setting for meaningful engagement. The event attracted over 100 attendees, including clients and industry associates, reflecting the strong relationships we have cultivated over the years. Partners Rima Sengupta, Steven Ross, Milli Jones, Paul Olliff, and John O’Donovan were all in attendance, engaging in impactful discussions on the evolving landscape of commercial property. MIPIM 2025 addressed several pivotal themes shaping the future of real estate. Discussions centred on geopolitical uncertainties and their impact on global markets, underscoring the importance of adaptability and resilience in investment strategies. The conference also delved into the integration of artificial intelligence in real estate, exploring how AI can enhance efficiency and decision-making processes. Additionally, there was a strong emphasis on sustainable development, with dialogues focusing on progressive approaches to achieve net-zero targets.

MIPIM 2025, held from March 11 to 14 at the iconic Palais des Festivals in Cannes, once again served as the premier gathering for global real estate professionals. This year's event attracted over 20,000 delegates from more than 90 countries, showcasing revolutionary projects and encouraging discussions on the future of urban development. Our firm was proud to participate, with Managing Partner Vijay Parikh leading a delegation that included esteemed colleagues from our banking, finance, and property teams. Our commitment to providing valuable updates to our clients, colleagues, and part- ners, as well as staying abreast of current market trends, was a key focus of our involvement. A highlight of our MIPIM experience was the evening event we hosted at Plage La Mandala, a renowned private beach club located along the Croisette in Cannes. This venue, known for its relaxed ambiance and

THE LEGAL CORNER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 11 ARPIL '25 HB

The presence of prominent figures, such as the mayors of major European capitals, highlighted the event's significance as a platform for urban development and investment. Notably, London Mayor Sadiq Khan's presence underscored the city's commitment to attracting global investors and encouraging cooperative advancements. Our engagement at MIPIM 2025 reinforced our position as a key player in the commercial property sector. The insights gained and connections strengthened during the event equip us to navigate the dynamic market landscape effectively. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all who attended our event at Plage La Mandala. Your presence and participation were invaluable in inspiring thoughtful exchanges and deepening the relationships that drive our industry forward. We look forward to nurturing these partnerships in the near future and continuing to collaborate on innovative opportunities in the ever-evolving real estate market.

Our engagement at MIPIM 2025 reinforced our position as a key player in the commercial property sector.

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