About the Company
Alfanar Energy UK, via our subsidiary Lighthouse Green fuels, are developing the largest Advanced Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) project in Europe, utilising first-of-it's-kind technology and attracting a £1.5billion investment package. It's a very exciting time to be joining us as our project gathers pace and the UK Government puts legislation in place to mandate SAF usage.
More information can be found at: www.lighthousegreenfuels.co.uk
Role Overview
We are currently seeking a Legal Counsel - DCO & Real Estate to join us on a staff or contract basis in London.
This role will lead the Development Consent Order (DCO) and real estate legal workstreams for the Lighthouse Green Fuels Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) Project. The position requires a lawyer with strong planning and property expertise who can independently manage complex legal processes under the Planning Act 2008, while collaborating closely with internal teams, external counsel, and statutory bodies.
Key Responsibilities
Development Consent Order (DCO)
* Lead the legal strategy and execution of the DCO application process under the Planning Act 2008, with limited oversight from Senior Legal Counsel.
* Prepare, review, and negotiate DCO documentation, including protective provisions and supporting agreements.
* Provide legal advice on all aspects of the DCO process, including statutory consultation, environmental impact assessments, and stakeholder engagement.
* Coordinate and prepare responses for the examination phase, including drafting submissions and statements of common ground.
* Represent the organisation in hearings and examinations before the Planning Inspectorate, as required.
* Work closely with internal technical and project management teams, external legal advisors, and government authorities to ensure timely, compliant, and strategically aligned submissions.
Real Estate
* Manage all legal aspects of land acquisition and assembly, including compulsory purchase, option agreements, leases, easements, and access rights.
* Conduct and oversee property due diligence on title, ownership, and third-party rights.
* Draft, negotiate, and advise on property and land-related contracts in coordination with commercial and project teams.
* Advise on land registration issues, boundary matters, rights of way, and property-related disputes.
* Collaborate with surveyors, planners, and external legal advisors to ensure smooth land transactions and compliance with relevant legislation.
General Legal Support
* Provide legal advice on a range of in-house matters including NDAs, commercial contracts, terms and conditions, and other ad hoc legal issues.
* Support the broader legal function in risk management, governance, and compliance matters as required.
Experience & Requirements
* Qualified solicitor (England & Wales) with 4–6 years’ PQE in planning, infrastructure, or real estate law, ideally gained in a leading law firm or in-house environment.
* Experience managing or advising on DCOs or other nationally significant infrastructure projects under the Planning Act 2008.
* Understanding of planning and environmental law, compulsory purchase processes, and statutory consultation requirements.
* Experience in land acquisition, title investigation, and property transactions for large-scale infrastructure or energy projects.
* Experience liaising with the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) and relevant government departments is desirable.
* Familiarity with energy, infrastructure, or renewable fuels sectors is advantageous.