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Mark Barker
Partner
Mark specialises in development work with a particular emphasis on complex and strategic regeneration projects and the forward funding and sale of large-scale developments in the student and PRS sectors. He acts for clients in both the private and public sector and has a national reputation for his practice advising on major development projects involving public and private sector collaboration.
Recent highlights include advising Watkin Jones on the forward funding sale of four purpose-built student accommodation schemes to an investment joint venture between KKR and Round Hill Capital for £180 million and advising Warrington Borough Council on its purchase of Birchwood Business Park for in excess of £200 million.
- Acting for Warrington Borough Council on the regeneration project at the Bridge Street Quarter through a partnership development agreement with Muse Developments. The scheme will deliver to the town centre a multi-screen cinema, which has been pre-let to Cineworld, new indoor market facility, high quality restaurants, grade A office space and enhanced public realm.
- Acting for Watkin Jones on the development funding for the delivery of 312 PRS units at Thames Quarter Reading for M&G Real Estate.
- Acting for the Developer on the forward funding and sale to Invesco Real Estate of a 319 unit PRS scheme on Liverpool Waterfront for a price in excess of £86 million.
- Acting for Co-operative Group in the growth, management and rationalisation of its property portfolio including advising on the acquisition of new build convenience stores, store disposals, refresh programmes and day-to-day management issues.
Education
- College of Law, Chester, Solicitors' Final Examination, honours
- University of Plymouth, B.Sc., honours
Admissions
- England and Wales, 1990
- “Mark is pragmatic and likes concluding deals – he is firm but gets on with the other side.” Chambers and Partners 2024
- “Mark Barker knows our business inside and out and understands how we work really well.” Chambers and Partners 2024