Social housing development specialist moves to HCR Law

Starkings has acted for housing associations, local authorities and developers on new residential development sites.

Rachael Watts, who also specialises in social housing development, has also joined HCR Law as a Senior Associate.

Joint Head of Healthcare at HCR Law, Louise Crook, said: “The social and affordable housing sector is likely to become more of a focus for the industry than for many years.

“Melissa and Rachael’s knowledge and experience in this sector will be of significant benefit to our clients. Their appointments add considerable strength and depth to our residential property team as we continue to work on projects across the country.”

Starkings said: “In December, Homes England, the UK government’s housing and regeneration agency, published its strategic plan for 2025-2030. Its first stated objective was to significantly increase new housing supply and accelerate housing delivery, and its second is to deliver the biggest increase in social and affordable housing in a generation.

“I am delighted to bring my knowledge and experience to HCR Law. Rachael and I, alongside our whole team, look forward to what will undoubtedly be a very busy year for this sector.”

HCR Law opened its Norwich office, the 13th in its network, in November 2025.