Listed building - is it an asset or a liability?
Planning, Environment & Climate
Partner
Neil Collar
Experienced adviser, inquiry advocate, blogger, author and conference speaker – Neil is one of Scotland's best known planning lawyers.
He has over 30 years’ experience as a planning lawyer. His work spans all aspects of the planning process, planning applications, appeals and inquiries (including inquiry advocacy), environmental impact assessment, court actions, planning issues in relation to land acquisition and disposal, compulsory purchase and compensation, listed buildings and conservation areas, and trees.
Neil's experience includes strategic development, regeneration areas, renewable energy, housing, retail, build to rent, student accommodation, hotels, offices, sport and leisure, and minerals.
Living Brodies' values
Neil considers the bigger picture, is collaborative and produces clear and concise advice, using his in-depth knowledge of planning law.
Highlights
- Legal Associate of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
- Accredited as a specialist in planning law by the Law Society of Scotland.
- Fifth edition of his book 'Planning', published in 2023.
- Follow Neil on Twitter for regular updates.
Rankings
- Ranked in Band 1 for Planning in Chambers UK 2025.
- Included in Legal 500 'Hall of Fame' for Planning
- Identified as a 'Leading Partner' in Tier 1 for Planning by Legal 500 UK 2024.
Neill Collar has unrivalled knowledge of the law and is capable of advisory and advocacy roles at a high level. Elaine Farquharson Black is peerless as an advisor and strategist and has masterminded many court successes.
Legal 500 UK 2025
As well as his experience and knowledge, Neil is a pleasure to deal with given the high level of his service and the commercial focus he brings to the table.
Chambers UK 2025
Neil Collar is so knowledgeable and you know you are in good hands when he is advising on all planning matters. His experience and understanding come into their own on technical issues and he helps face challenges in a realistic and sensible manner.
Legal 500 UK 2025
Neil Collar is very proactive and responds quickly to complex and unusual issues arising from planning disputes.
Legal 500 UK 2025
‘We consider Neil Collar to be the finest legal mind with regards to onshore renewables in Scotland. We find his experience, insight and strategic approach invaluable to delivering our work.’
Legal 500 UK 2024
