Join to apply for the Planning Solicitor role at Holmes & Hills Solicitors
We are looking for a Planning Law Solicitor to join our highly regarded specialist Planning Law Department recognised by Chambers & Partners, Legal 500 and The Planner for its planning expertise.
Responsibilities
* Work as part of a specialist team assisting the firm’s wide variety of clients and professional referrers in planning matters.
* Advising on planning law across commercial, residential or mixed-use projects.
* Prepare applications for certificates of lawfulness.
* Deal with appeals on behalf of local authorities, landowners and developers following refusals, certificates of lawfulness and enforcement notices.
* Handle s288 statutory challenges and judicial reviews in the High Court.
* Act on both sides of enforcement prosecutions when required.
You will provide expert and specialist advice and pursue the client’s best interests. You will also build strong relationships with the firm’s existing client base, help expand the professional network and promote the department.
The day to day
* Represent developers, landowners, local planning authorities and individuals across a broad spectrum of planning and development matters.
* Advise on complex S106 Agreements for residential and mixed developments, securing community facilities, financial contributions, land for education and employment uses, public open space, ecological mitigation and affordable housing.
* Handling appeals before the Planning Inspectorate via written representations, hearings and inquiries, with advocacy where appropriate.
* Involvement in High Court proceedings including statutory challenges (s288 and s289) and judicial reviews, with opportunities to work before the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court.
* Represent Local Authorities in magistrates courts and the Crown Court for breaches of planning control.
The Department also provides strategic planning advice for developers and landowners and advises on nationally significant infrastructure purchase and compulsory purchase matters, with opportunities to work on s106 agreements.
What experience do I need?
The successful candidate will have Planning Law experience, potentially with a background in Local Government or private practice, and an interest in consolidating or developing a specialism within Planning Law. A reputation for providing top‑quality advice in a professional but approachable manner is desirable.
What skills should I have?
* A background knowledge of planning law
* Excellent communication skills
* A self-motivated and proactive attitude
* Commercial awareness
* Enjoy networking and building long-lasting relationships with clients, agents and referrers
About Us
Holmes & Hills Solicitors is a large regional firm with seven offices across Essex and Suffolk and over 200 legal professionals across specialist departments. We work with clients across East Anglia, including businesses, individuals, families and local authorities, to build long‑standing relationships and support client growth.
Seniority level
* Mid-Senior level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Legal
Industries
* Accounting
These accreditations give our clients confidence that the legal advice and representation from Holmes & Hills is among the best available.
We are an equal opportunities employer. Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Holmes & Hills Solicitors.
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