When it comes to major projects in the capital, there is nothing bigger than the controversial Crossrail project. Linklaters projects whiz Fiona Hobbs led the five-partner team that secured the mandate from the Department for Transport (DfT) in its role as government sponsor of the project, securing work for the firm until at least 2009. In all likelihood, the mandate will stretch well beyond that.

The project was a big win for Linklaters in what was a highly competitive tender against the other magic circle firms. It will not be easy - and it will probably not be popular - but with Hobbs’ energetic personality driving the advice, the DfT will be hoping the passage of the Government’s legislation runs like it is on rails.