Brownfield Site Acquisition

Negotiation and completion of a brownfield site in Buckinghamshire for commercial use as a data centre

We advised a property investor on the negotiation and completion of an option agreement over a brownfield site in Buckinghamshire, with the land being strategically assembled and promoted for commercial use as a data centre.

The transaction formed part of a wider investment strategy to secure and de-risk a site suitable for data-led infrastructure in the South East, close to London and key connectivity corridors.

The Challenge

Data centre developments require early-stage legal structuring to manage planning risk, infrastructure requirements, and long-term value. In this case, the client required control of the site while undertaking technical, planning, and commercial assessments prior to acquisition.

Key challenges included:

Allocating planning and promotion risk within the option structure
Ensuring flexibility to respond to market demand and occupier requirements
Addressing legacy brownfield issues and site constraints

Our Approach

We provided strategic and commercial legal advice throughout the option process.

Option Agreement Structuring

Advised on the optimal option structure to secure site control while managing risk
Drafted and negotiated the option agreement to support data centre use
Incorporated provisions addressing option period, extension rights, and conditionality

Risk and Value Protection

Negotiated provisions dealing with site investigations, access rights, and information sharing
Addressed title, environmental, and brownfield-related risks within the agreement
Safeguarded valuation mechanisms and future acquisition terms

The Outcome

The option agreement was successfully completed, securing the client strategic control of a well-located brownfield site in Buckinghamshire.

The structure allows the site to be packaged and promoted for data centre use, placing the investor in a strong position to proceed with acquisition or disposal once planning and commercial objectives are achieved.

Why Choose Us?

Strategic Land Expertise – Proven experience advising on option agreements and land control strategies.
Commercial Use Focus – Deep understanding of specialist commercial assets, including data centres and infrastructure-led development.
London & South East Reach – Advising investors on strategic sites across London, Buckinghamshire, and the wider UK.
Investor-Led Approach – Commercial, pragmatic advice tailored to investment objectives and exit strategies.

If you are an investor, developer, or operator looking to secure strategic land for commercial or infrastructure use, our commercial property team can provide clear, forward-thinking legal advice.

Get in touch

I can only recommend Ashworths. Been using them for over 15 years, simply the best.”

Mr V. London