Senior Freelance PHP Developer UK

Yes. I start with a technical audit of the codebase, database, integrations, hosting and dependencies, and work with you to understand the business logic and what the application needs to keep doing.

If the existing code makes change or support difficult, I may recommend a phased rewrite. That lets me preserve the business logic while creating a codebase I can take technical responsibility for, develop proactively and support with you over the long term.

Yes. Tell me what the software does, who uses it and what you need to change. You do not need to know the framework, PHP version or hosting setup, and you do not need to prepare a technical brief.

From there, I can quote for a technical audit of the application. You will get a clear picture of its structure, condition, dependencies and main risks, with practical next steps before committing to development work.

Yes, subject to an initial technical review. PHP application modernisation can include PHP version upgrades, framework and library updates, refactoring, automated testing, database changes and replacing outdated integrations.

I identify compatibility issues and operational risks before recommending an approach. The work can often be delivered in stages so useful software continues to support the business while its foundations are improved.

Yes. My PHP development work includes MySQL database design, schema changes, data migrations, query optimisation and reporting. I also work with existing databases whose structure has evolved over many years.

When an existing application starts to creak, the database is often where I look first. I can trace slow queries, inefficient data structures and reporting load, then plan improvements alongside the application code. Changes are made with backups, testing and careful deployment to protect important business data.

I work across the PHP ecosystem, with Laravel generally my preference for business applications. I have worked extensively with WordPress and WooCommerce, and have also worked with CodeIgniter and Drupal.

I am very open to Symfony, Statamic and Craft CMS projects, as well as bespoke PHP codebases. Whatever the platform, I start by understanding the application and what you need to achieve.

Yes. I can investigate slow PHP applications across the application code, MySQL queries, caching, external services and production environment. The aim is to identify the actual bottleneck before recommending changes.

I can also work with Linux hosting, Apache or NGINX configuration and application deployments where these form part of the project. I do not provide general-purpose server administration, but I can coordinate with your hosting provider or infrastructure team.

Yes. I can join an agency or in-house development team, take ownership of a defined part of a project or add senior PHP capacity during a busy delivery period. I can help shape requirements and technical specifications as well as build, review and hand over the work.

I adapt to your setup, including Docker, GitHub Actions or GitLab CI, and work within your source control and code review process. I am comfortable with Agile planning, Kanban boards and sprints, and stay responsive on Slack or Microsoft Teams so the team can keep moving.

For ongoing development or retainer arrangements, my day rate starts at £500. I generally quote a fixed fee for defined projects, using that rate as a basis and allowing for scope, complexity and risk. Technical audits are quoted separately. For contract engagements, I’m open to outside-IR35 arrangements where the working relationship supports them.

Send me a short description of the application, what you need to achieve, your preferred timing and any budget constraints. I will identify the main unknowns and suggest the most appropriate next step.

Yes. I provide ongoing development and maintenance for applications I have built or systems that have a clear route forward. This can include new features, upgrades, integrations, performance work and production support.

Engagements can be arranged around a planned roadmap or an agreed allocation of time. For an inherited application, I first review its condition so we have a shared understanding of priorities, technical debt and the work needed to maintain it responsibly.