We are looking for a planning Solicitor with 3+ years PQE to join our national team as part of a new phase of expansion. The team acts for a broad client base including residential and mixed use developers, a leading discount retailer, corporate occupiers, contractors, charities, investors, funders, the NHS, local authorities and Government bodies. Working under the guidance of a Partner and Legal Director (both London based). this presents an ideal opportunity for someone with aspirations to broaden their experience in a varied regional role with a high degree of autonomy.
Your work will include providing strategic and tactical advice on securing planning permission, drafting and negotiating statutory agreements, undertaking due diligence in relation to the planning aspects of real estate, funding and corporate transactions. Advising on special protection areas, Assets of Community Value and Village Greens. You will be involved with auditing planning application documents and committee reports to assist clients with risk management, appeals, judicial review and enforcement. Your work will also cover highways advice. You should have a good knowledge of EIA, CIL and GLA planning.
You will have the opportunity to develop your own caseload as well as working closely with senior members of the Firm on a range of development related matters. You will be expected to be involved in business development and marketing activities and encouraged to develop a network of contacts both internally and externally.
The successful candidate may be based out of our Reading, London, Southampton or Cardiff office on a hybrid basis. Team members currently attend the office 2-3 days each week.
Skills / Experience Required
Applicants must be qualified to practise in England and Wales with a minimum of 3 years post qualification experience. You must also be able to evidence:
* Extensive experience in planning and highways law
* Experience of drafting of complex sc 106 Agreements, highway agreements, land development agreements, complex planning due diligence reports
* Experience of working on planning led regeneration projects
* Experience of advising on planning judicial review
* Experience of conducting planning appeals and presenting at planning committees
* Expert technical expertise and analytical skills
* A track record of successful practice development
* Excellent communication skills and able to explain complex matters to clients without a legal background