Mark Cook - Anthony Collins Solicitors

My role

I’m a partner who plays a leading role in our work with local authorities, housing associations and businesses, in transforming services for the public and meeting the many challenges in society. I am training principal for the firm, responsible for the care of our trainee solicitors and the recruitment and retention of talented people wishing to join their ranks.

My experience

For over 25 years I have advised on working together across the public, private and civil society sectors. I provide strategic advice on models for transforming public services and believe in the ability of those on the ground to make the difference in their neighbourhoods. I am an expert in making social value a core feature in public services.

My specialisms

Public procurement and state aid
Local government and public law
Company and commercial law
Enabling innovation and making connections

My latest articles

What does the Autumn Statement mean for infrastructure? Friday 25 November 2016

The Chancellor didn’t tell us much more than we already knew about the new Government’s plans for infrastructure over this Parliament and it seems that the Government isn't entirely sure about how infrastructure investment will be spent over the next five years.

Theresa May rules, UK? Friday 15 July 2016

I wrote a short piece after the Scottish independence referendum in which I made the case for “A United Kingdom Act” to describe what binds us together.

Estate regeneration – Government launches expressions of interest process Tuesday 1 March 2016

Over the past 30 years we have worked with local authorities, community groups, developers, housing associations and indeed the Government itself, often engaging in official programmes.

Will 2016 be a year of sweet and sour or a more balanced diet for councils? Thursday 14 January 2016

The Secretary of State hailed the December 2015 announcement of a historic settlement for town halls, gushing about a new era of long-term financial certainty for councils and more resources for adult social care.

The impact of the CSR and Autumn Statement 2015 on local authorities – doing the hokey cokey with the Chancellor! Friday 27 November 2015

All is not healthy with Social Care, nor will it get better Councils responsible for social care will now be able to levy a social care ‘precept’ of up to 2% on council tax.

Community Libraries and Community Ownership Tuesday 27 October 2015

2, 4, 6, 8, who do we appreciate? (how do we evaluate?) Friday 24 July 2015

Underpinning it all are the “Treaty of Rome” fundamental principles of transparency, equal treatment and non-discrimination, proportionality and mutual recognition.

The West Midlands Combined Authority: a promising start Wednesday 8 July 2015

The diamond: this is not just about seven metropolitan unitary councils getting together but the scope for expansion to, and development in, a wider area of local authorities currently covered by three Local Enterprise Partnerships.

Will the City Devolution Bill deliver Revolution, Convolution or Evolution? Friday 15 May 2015

But that is exactly where we are, with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, announcing the Government’s plan for a new City Devolution Bill in a speech delivered in Manchester.

Social businesses and public services Wednesday 4 February 2015

Third sector organisations and cooperatives have delivered to the public for generations and pioneered many services that are now provided by the State.

I have been recognised for the work I do

Chambers and Partners Ranking 2018

Chambers and Partners UK 2017 - Leaders in their Field

Recommended Lawyer 2016

See the rest of our awards