Scarce rights

When rights are limited, every decision must hold up

Permits and rights are not always unlimited. Think of pitches, moorings, subsidies or licences. In those cases, your decisions are closely scrutinised. You need to ensure equal opportunities and a procedure that stands up legally.

Our service

Equal treatment requires structure and precision

The allocation of scarce rights must be transparent, objective and non-discriminatory. European rules, such as the Services Directive, and national case law set clear standards.

The impact is significant. A flawed procedure can lead to delays, legal challenges or annulment of decisions. This means getting it right from the outset. Clear criteria, a well-designed process and careful execution make the difference.

We help you design and defend robust procedures

We support you in setting up allocation procedures that are both legally sound and workable in practice. From drafting policies and frameworks to advising on concrete allocations and guiding procedures.

Our approach is pragmatic and forward-looking. We identify risks early and ensure your process holds up when challenged. So you can make decisions with confidence.

Our expertise

  • Advising on scarce permits and rights
  • Designing legally sound selection procedures
  • Assessing compliance with the Services Directive and national case law

Who do we work for?

We work primarily for local authorities and other public bodies responsible for allocating scarce rights.

Track record

Recent case Scarce rights

  • Mooring permit scheme for a local authority
  • Exemptions for houseboat moorings
  • Parking policy frameworks
  • Licensing procedures for wind turbines