Civic Recruitment Limited
Planning Lawyer
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3 - 6 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Job Purpose
To provide high-quality legal advice and support on a broad range of planning and highways matters, ensuring that the Council's statutory functions and strategic objectives are delivered effectively and in compliance with relevant legislation. The role will manage a varied caseload, including complex planning agreements and legal documentation, while providing practical and solution-focused legal advice to officers, members, and stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Draft, negotiate, and complete Section 106 Agreements relating to planning applications and development proposals.
- Prepare and advise on Highways Agreements under Sections 38 and 278 of the Highways Act.
- Provide legal advice on planning law, highways law, development management, and related local government matters.
- Undertake complex drafting work and provide clear, practical legal solutions to support service objectives.
- Advise on strategic and policy matters relating to planning and development.
- Support planning officers, senior management, and elected members by providing timely and accurate legal advice.
- Review planning applications and associated legal issues, identifying risks and recommending appropriate courses of action.
- Draft and advise on Certificates of Lawful Use and Development where required.
- Attend meetings, negotiations, and Planning Committee meetings as required, providing legal advice and support.
- Manage a varied caseload independently, ensuring matters are progressed efficiently and within agreed timescales.
- Maintain accurate case records, time recording, and documentation using the Council's case management systems.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across Legal Services, Planning, Highways, and other departments to support service delivery.
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Requirements
- Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate where applicable.
- Minimum 5 years' post-qualification experience (PQE) in planning law.
- Significant experience drafting and negotiating Section 106 Agreements.
- Experience preparing Highways Agreements under Sections 38 and 278 of the Highways Act, or willingness and ability to develop expertise in this area.
- Strong drafting skills with experience handling complex legal documentation and negotiations.
- Ability to provide advice on planning policy, strategic planning matters, and development proposals.
- Ability to analyse legal issues and make sound decisions with minimal supervision.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to provide clear and concise legal advice.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and legal case management systems.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Experience attending and advising at Planning Committee meetings.
- Knowledge of Planning Enforcement procedures and legislation.
- Experience analysing applications for and drafting Certificates of Lawful Use and Development.
- Knowledge of wider local government legal practice, including licensing, regulatory law, constitutional law, administrative law, or criminal litigation.
- Previous experience working within a local authority legal team.
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Additional Information
- Location: Flexible/Remote Working
- Hours: Up to 5 days per week (full-time preferred, reduced hours considered)
- Contract Length: 3–6 months
- Payment: Bi-weekly payments
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