CR
Planning Lawyer
- Hiring from
- United Kingdom
- Work type
- Hybrid
- Posted
- Sep 24, 2026
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About Us
<p style="margin-top: 0px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; white-space: normal">At Civic Recruitment and Limited, we know that individuals are more than just fixed expenses; they are the cornerstone of every thriving organisation. That’s why we are passionate about transforming recruitment in the public and private sectors. <br/> </p> <div>In the modern job market, organisations in both public and private sectors face significant workforce challenges. Public sector entities, such as local councils and central government departments, often struggle with lengthy recruitment processes, limited access to qualified candidates, and stringent budgetary and regulatory constraints. Private sector businesses, on the other hand, encounter high turnover rates, difficulties managing a mix of permanent and temporary staff, and challenges in sourcing specialised talent for niche industries. These sector-specific obstacles, coupled with the universal complexities of payroll management, create a pressing need for efficient workforce solutions.<br/> </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div>Civic Recruitment Limited addresses these challenges with innovative recruitment and payroll solutions tailored for diverse organisational needs. Recognising the critical hurdles organisations face, the company leverages its expertise to streamline processes, reduce recruitment times, and alleviate administrative burdens. With an extensive database of over 1 million pre-screened candidates, Civic Recruitment Limited is well-positioned to cater to the specific needs of both public and private sectors.<br/> </div> <p> <br/> </p> <div> <br/> </div>
Job Description
3 - 6 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Job Purpose
To provide high-quality legal advice and support on a broad range of planning and highways matters, ensuring that the Council's statutory functions and strategic objectives are delivered effectively and in compliance with relevant legislation. The role will manage a varied caseload, including complex planning agreements and legal documentation, while providing practical and solution-focused legal advice to officers, members, and stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Draft, negotiate, and complete Section 106 Agreements relating to planning applications and development proposals.
- Prepare and advise on Highways Agreements under Sections 38 and 278 of the Highways Act.
- Provide legal advice on planning law, highways law, development management, and related local government matters.
- Undertake complex drafting work and provide clear, practical legal solutions to support service objectives.
- Advise on strategic and policy matters relating to planning and development.
- Support planning officers, senior management, and elected members by providing timely and accurate legal advice.
- Review planning applications and associated legal issues, identifying risks and recommending appropriate courses of action.
- Draft and advise on Certificates of Lawful Use and Development where required.
- Attend meetings, negotiations, and Planning Committee meetings as required, providing legal advice and support.
- Manage a varied caseload independently, ensuring matters are progressed efficiently and within agreed timescales.
- Maintain accurate case records, time recording, and documentation using the Council's case management systems.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across Legal Services, Planning, Highways, and other departments to support service delivery.
Requirements
- Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate where applicable.
- Minimum 5 years' post-qualification experience (PQE) in planning law.
- Significant experience drafting and negotiating Section 106 Agreements.
- Experience preparing Highways Agreements under Sections 38 and 278 of the Highways Act, or willingness and ability to develop expertise in this area.
- Strong drafting skills with experience handling complex legal documentation and negotiations.
- Ability to provide advice on planning policy, strategic planning matters, and development proposals.
- Ability to analyse legal issues and make sound decisions with minimal supervision.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to provide clear and concise legal advice.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and legal case management systems.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Experience attending and advising at Planning Committee meetings.
- Knowledge of Planning Enforcement procedures and legislation.
- Experience analysing applications for and drafting Certificates of Lawful Use and Development.
- Knowledge of wider local government legal practice, including licensing, regulatory law, constitutional law, administrative law, or criminal litigation.
- Previous experience working within a local authority legal team.
Additional Information
- Location: Flexible/Remote Working
- Hours: Up to 5 days per week (full-time preferred, reduced hours considered)
- Contract Length: 3–6 months
- Payment: Bi-weekly payments