Associate/Senior Associate - Legal Planning

We are seeking an experienced Associate or Senior Associate to join our nationally recognised Legal Planning Team. This is a key opportunity to join a growing, high-performing national practice working on some of the most significant and complex planning matters in the sector. Our team has expanded substantially in recent years, in response to increasing demand and the scale and complexity of our work. We advise a diverse mix of public and private-sector clients and support them across the full spectrum of planning and development matters - including major residential schemes, strategic development sites, infrastructure projects, development consent orders, compulsory purchase and judicial review. The team holds long-standing rankings in both Chambers and Legal 500, with multiple individually recognised practitioners. As we continue to grow, we are looking for a talented planning specialist who wants to contribute to the development of a leading national offering.

Responsibilities

Lead on complex planning, development and infrastructure matters; Draft, negotiate and oversee Section 106 agreements and associated obligations for major development schemes; Advise developers, landowners, housebuilders, local authorities and national organisations on sensitive and high-value planning matters; Manage contentious work, including enforcement matters, appeals and judicial review proceedings; Work closely with our wider multidisciplinary consultancy - including planning, heritage and architecture specialists - to deliver a seamless and integrated service; Supervise, mentor and support junior colleagues as the team continues to expand; Play an active role in business development, strengthening existing relationships and helping to develop new opportunities.

Requirements

Extensive experience in planning law, gained in a reputable public, private or mixed-practice environment; Experience leading or advising on planning strategy for major residential, mixed-use or infrastructure developments; A strong track record of drafting and negotiating complex Section 106 agreements, advising on compulsory purchase matters and guiding clients through major planning processes; Excellent technical and drafting skills, with a commercial, solutions-focused approach; Experience handling contentious matters such as appeals, inquiries, enforcement issues or judicial review; A proactive, collaborative approach to client management, team development and practice growth; A desire to contribute to the continued evolution of a highly regarded and expanding planning team.

Benefits

Agile working; blended approach to where and how we work; flexibility built on trust; opportunities to collaborate across a diverse network of specialists; access to award-winning learning