Cooper v Ludgate House Ltd features in The Lawyer

The cases of Cooper v Ludgate House Limited and Powell v Ludgate House Limited have been featured in an article published by The Lawyer.

The cases concern two top 100 UK law firms, Lewis Silkin and Winckworth Sherwood, who may face disruption as the “Arbor building” they occupy is at risk of demolition following a legal dispute over rights to light. The 18-storey building, part of the Bankside Yards development near Blackfriars Bridge, is being challenged by nearby residents Stephen and Jennifer Powell, who claim it blocks natural light to their apartments. A neighbouring resident, Kevin Cooper, has filed a similar case.

The claimants are seeking an injunction that could force developer Native Land to either demolish the building or alter the development. The trial concluded in April 2025, with a court decision expected by July.

Lewis Silkin and Winckworth Sherwood moved into Arbor in 2023, drawn by its strong sustainability credentials—it operates at net zero carbon, uses renewable energy, and has an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating. Demolition, according to the developer’s legal team, would be a costly and wasteful loss of much-needed office space.

John McGhee KC acts for the defendant, Ludgate House Limited, with Kester Lees KC (Falcon Chambers), instructed by Pinsent Masons.

Read The Lawyer’s article here