Ian Graves

Ian advises on major infrastructure projects, with particular focus on energy transmission, transport and water schemes. He acts for leading electricity and gas transmission operators, water utilities and transport promoters on Development Consent Orders, compulsory purchase, protective provisions and planning agreements. 

Ranked as a Leading Associate for planning in the West Midlands by Legal 500 (2025), Ian delivers commercially focused advice that draws on deep sector knowledge and an understanding of both the regulatory landscape and client commercial drivers.

Ian acts for some of the UK's most significant infrastructure clients. He advises a major national electricity transmission operator on multiple grid reinforcement projects enabling increased low-carbon energy capacity, as well as visual improvement schemes and protective provisions for third-party developments connecting to the national grid. He also acts for a leading national gas transmission operator on consenting and land matters, and advises water utilities on strategic resource planning and major infrastructure delivery.

His transport sector experience includes acting for a leading high-speed rail company on Phase 1 implementation, including complex compulsory purchase compensation matters with claims valued in excess of GPB 50 milion. Ian was also part of the team advising a UK Government department on legal challenges to national aviation policy, where the team's advice on consideration of European protected sites was upheld by the Supreme Court.

Ian is an accomplished drafter, experienced in producing development consent orders, explanatory memoranda and protective provisions from both promoter and statutory undertaker perspectives. He holds the Higher Rights of Audience qualification and has substantial experience of managing complex examinations and public inquiries.

Ian is ranked as a Leading Associate for planning in the West Midlands by Legal 500 (2025), having previously been recognised as a Rising Star (2022–2024). The directory has also acknowledged his environmental law credentials, noting his "impressive experience" and "expertise in environmental law."

Ian has a particular interest in legal technology and the application of artificial intelligence to legal practice.