I am recruiting a Senior Planning & Highways Lawyer to support a council delivering a wide‑ranging programme of work across planning, highways, transport, and public realm development.
This is a great opportunity for someone with solid experience in planning or highways law who enjoys varied, practical work and can offer clear, grounded advice in a fast‑moving environment. You don’t need to be a specialist in every area - strong general experience and good judgement are what matter most.
About the Organisation
The council is progressing a number of significant initiatives, including:
* Traffic and parking management programmes
* Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) expansion
* Public realm and highways improvement schemes
* Development‑related infrastructure and planning obligations
* Long‑term strategies to support sustainable transport and reduce vehicle dependency
You’ll be joining at a time when your advice will help shape how these projects are delivered.
Key Responsibilities
You’ll provide legal support across both planning and highways matters, including:
* Advising on Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) and Traffic Management Orders (TMOs)
* Supporting work on CPZs, bus lanes, speed limits, parking orders, and related schemes
* Advising on Section 38, Section 278, and Section 106 agreements
* Providing clear, senior‑level advice to officers, project teams, and committees
* Managing a varied caseload with multiple deadlines and priorities
* Ensuring statutory compliance and helping the council navigate risk in complex or sensitive projects
* Supporting planning and development‑related work as required
What We’re Looking For:
We’re keen to hear from candidates who bring:
Broad experience across planning, highways, or transport law
You may have worked on TROs/TMOs, highways agreements, planning obligations, development control, or similar areas.
A practical, solutions‑focused approach
The team values clear, grounded advice that helps officers move projects forward.
Confidence working independently
You’ll often be the first point of contact for officers and project leads, so the ability to take ownership of your work is important.
Strong organisational skills
The caseload is varied and fast‑paced, with statutory processes running alongside political and operational priorities.
Good judgement in sensitive or high‑profile matters
You’ll support projects that attract public interest, so a calm, measured approach is essential.
Why This Role Might Appeal to You
* You’ll work on a wide range of interesting planning and highways matters
* You’ll have the space to work autonomously while being part of a supportive team
* You’ll gain exposure to high‑profile schemes and strategic decision‑making
* You’ll be joining at a moment of genuine change, where your advice will have visible impact