I have worked with Matthew throughout 2020 on a major planning case with very difficult and complex issues. Matthew has been superb throughout. Diligent, incredibly hard working and extremely shrewd in his advice to the client and to the wider team. Additionally, he is a delight to work with - a very good team player and lovely in addition. I recommend him highly without hesitation.

Sasha White QC

I have worked with Matthew at a few Inquiries. On every occasion I have found Matthew to be very diligent and thorough in preparation. On the day when giving evidence Matthew was well prepared and fully researched. In addition, when giving evidence and answering questions he was courteous, credible and reliable. No more can be asked or expected of a witness. I have no hesitation in recommending Matthew as a witness.

Gordon Steele QC

We engaged Matthew Sheppard to handle a complex and emotive planning appeal on our behalf. At all times he was thoroughly professional, knowledgeable, calm, confident and personable and regardless of the ultimate outcome of our matter (which is unknown at the time of writing), I have no hesitation in recommending Matthew for similar complex and demanding projects.

Peter Mondon, Pemberstone

I have worked with Matthew on 2 large projects of strategic importance. Both were EIA development. The first comprised a 1m sqft industrial estate in Gildersome, Leeds. The second comprised a 130,000 sqft refrigerated RDC in Boroughbridge, as an integral component of an existing business. I was instructed at a time when the planning application process had stalled and an appeal against non-determination seemed inevitable. Working with Matthew, we were able to devise and implement a planning strategy which resolved concerns over the adequacy of the EIA and addressed a number of outstanding issues, especially highway impacts, landscape and visual impact and masterplanning. Matthew's skills in promoting the applications and dealing with the LPA meant that our clients had a successful outcome in a reasonable timescale, thereby avoiding a time-consuming and expensive appeal process. Both were complex multi-disciplinary projects, which Matthew was able to project manage with considerable skill. Both schemes have been completed and are operating successfully.

Giles Cannock QC

Having seen Matthew in action at local plan examinations and planning committees, I have always been aware of his attention to detail and methodical approach. We have since appointed Matthew on a couple of our sites, where we have encountered complex planning issues that need resolving. I would highly recommend Matthew as he will always give his clients a clear and robust strategy to move a scheme forward.

Mark Jones, Head of Planning, Barratt Homes