Karen has over 40 years experience as a planning and environment lawyer, having trained as a barrister in specialist planning chambers in London. She has worked both in private practice and a range of local government settings. Over that time she has worked on major retail development schemes, including sub-regional shopping centres, highways projects, including the tolled section of the M6 motorway and large residential and regeneration developments, including a number of garden villages. She has also advised extensively on heritage matters, including listed buildings and development in World Heritage Sites, and on a variety of energy projects, including solar and on-shore wind.
Karen is known for her technical expertise, particularly in rights of way, having worked as the legal rights of way specialist at a County Council. She also has experience of Town and Village Green claims and common land, including de-registration of over 250 ha of land adjacent to the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. She regularly advises clients on Community Infrastructure Levy and Biodiversity Net Gain in relation to which she has also provided input into contract drafting for the wider property team.
Karen's approach is to unlock problems by providing practical solutions for clients. Whilst it is not always possible to "wave the magic wand", she will try her very best to do so wherever possible.