What can I do for you
Ian is a specialist construction and engineering solicitor with over 25 years’ experience advising clients across a wide range of sectors including living, education, hotels, power and process, nuclear decommissioning, retail and commercial offices. He helps clients to navigate the legal, commercial and technical complexities of construction and development projects, drawing on deep industry knowledge and extensive experience of major infrastructure and regeneration schemes.
Ian regularly advises developers, funders, local authorities, energy companies and large corporates on high‑value and often multifaceted projects. His work spans procurement strategy, contract drafting and negotiation, risk allocation and project delivery. Known for his clear, practical advice, Ian helps clients achieve better outcomes by understanding their ambitions and ensuring that the legal approach supports wider project and commercial goals.
Supporting your ambitions
Ian’s clients value his ability to combine technical expertise with commercial judgement, ensuring projects run smoothly and decisions are made with clarity and confidence. His work includes advising retailers on the procurement of new distribution centres worth up to approximately £300 million, supporting the delivery of complex logistics and construction packages.
He has helped developers to realise major mixed‑use and living‑sector developments, including a £120 million regeneration scheme at Stopford Park in Stockport, numerous student accommodation projects and single family developments.
Ian’s experience also extends to energy and process‑sector work, including drafting and negotiating an EPC contract for a £250 million energy recovery facility at Avonmouth and advising on a €166 million chlorine plant in Runcorn. He has supported public bodies on complex construction projects, helping them achieve successful delivery through clear, insightful advice.
Across all matters, Ian focuses on listening to what clients need, offering smart, informed guidance and helping them make well‑judged decisions that drive momentum and achieve their ambitions.
What do others say
“Ian Hardman is absolutely excellent. He's exceptional, very personable and knowledgeable. We are very happy with the construction advice we get.” — Chambers & Partners
What else should you know
Ian has worked across the construction and engineering sector for more than two decades and has developed particular expertise in major infrastructure, energy projects and large‑scale development schemes. He holds postgraduate qualifications in construction law, arbitration and public procurement, giving him a well‑rounded understanding of the legal frameworks that shape the industry.