Our People

Robert Bruce | Partner

robert.bruce@freeths.co.uk
+44 (0) 0345 128 6958

View Robert Bruce's profile on LinkedIn

General Information

Robert has over 20 years of experience advising planning, highways and local government law in relation to drinks, hospitality and leisure uses. He has a track record of combining detailed knowledge of the law with commercially minded advice to provide solutions and deliver results.

“Rob Bruce is experienced, calm and has good judgement. He is one of the top partners around.”
Legal 500

Robert is ranked in Chambers (2022 edition) as a Leading Individual and is listed as a Recommended Lawyer in the Legal 500 (2022 edition).

Recent projects, cases & deals

  • Obtaining planning permission for a major development of 7,200 square metres for hotel, café/restaurant and other uses at a called-in public inquiry
  • Advising a major chain pub owner on overcoming various issues including listed building, conservation area and viability issues
  • Advising pub owners on handling noise complaints and enforcement investigations from Councils
  • Advising pub owners on re-purposing unviable pubs for residential
  • Advising on changes permitted to various uses under the General Permitted Development Order and Use Classes Order including the Class E and changes in legislation
  • Advising on whether coffee shops and sandwich bars remain within the permitted Use Class
  • Advising a major hotel impacted on infrastructure works and compulsory acquisition
  • Formerly working at Westminster City Council defending appeals on various night time drinks and hospitality uses, particularly on noise, disturbance and policy grounds

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