Associate/ Senior Associate (4+ years PQE)

We're looking for an ambitious and commercially minded Planning Associate or Senior Associate (4+ years PQE) to join our Planning & Infrastructure Consenting team in Bristol. You will have the opportunity to work on some of the most significant developments in England and Wales. The team advises on a wide range of planning matters, acting on nationally significant infrastructure projects, compulsory purchase matters, commercial and housebuilding developers as well as statutory undertakers and local authorities. Our work spans the full development lifecycle, from site promotion and planning strategy through to consenting, implementation and project delivery.

You will be involved in advising on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) and Development of National Significance / Significant Infrastructure Projects in Wales. Our significant pipeline of renewable energy projects includes solar, battery storage, onshore wind and grid infrastructure. We are also advising on significant project interfaces, compulsory purchase matters and wider development work being promoted under Transport and Works Act Order (particularly in the marine environment).

Working closely with colleagues across the firm (including Energy, Marine and the Public Sector), you will support clients on planning strategy, planning applications, planning obligations, highways matters, compulsory purchase, community infrastructure levy, lawful development certificates and development consent regimes. You will also advise on contentious planning matters, including enforcement action, appeals, judicial review and statutory challenges.

From the outset, you will be encouraged to take ownership of matters, manage client relationships and play an active role in business development initiatives all within a framework of supporting your career development and progression. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your profile within a highly regarded team that is recognised for its expertise in planning, infrastructure and the energy sector.

You will be a qualified solicitor with at least 4 years' post-qualification experience and a strong grounding in planning law gained at a national, regional or city firm. You will be an excellent communicator with strong technical, organisational and drafting skills, capable of managing competing priorities and delivering pragmatic advice to clients. You will enjoy working collaboratively as part of a team while also being confident in taking responsibility for your own matters.

We are looking for someone who is genuinely interested in planning, development and the evolving policy landscape that shapes the sector. You will have a strong client focus and a proven ability to build lasting relationships, understanding the commercial drivers behind clients' projects and helping them achieve their objectives.

Given the team's market-leading work in the renewable energy and infrastructure sectors, we are particularly interested in candidates who share our enthusiasm for supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy and delivering the projects that will help shape the UK's clean energy future.

In return, you will have the opportunity to work alongside recognised leaders in the sector on complex and high-profile projects, while being supported to develop your expertise, grow your professional network and play an active role in the continued success and growth of the team.

At Ashfords, we believe in more than just doing great work - we believe in building a great place to work. When you join us, you become part of a team where everything we do is underpinned by our four core values: Be Open, Think Team, Make a Difference and Always Grow. These values shape who we are and how we work - they guide our decisions, influence our culture, and drive the way we support our people, clients and communities.

With a clear focus on innovation, community involvement, and supporting a healthy work-life balance, we are committed to building an environment where our people can have a rewarding and meaningful career. Whilst we recognise that every career journey is unique, we will be ambitious for you, giving you the tools, trust, and opportunities to develop your career, your way.

Our goal? To help you realise your full potential as part of a forward-thinking team.

We know that our people are at the heart of everything we do – and that’s why we’re committed to supporting your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. Beyond our benefits package, you’ll be encouraged, no matter what your role or career level, to get involved in our Responsible Business programme, where you’ll support initiatives such as charity fundraising, environmental causes and our employee led diversity and inclusion groups.

Our recruitment process typically involves two stages, which are designed not only to explore your skills and experience but also to give you a real insight into what it’s like to work at Ashfords. Throughout the process, our dedicated Talent Attraction team will be here to support you every step of the way.

We believe that building a firm with a wide range of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences drives innovation and strengthens our teams, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. To support your growth, we offer ongoing training and development opportunities to help you reach your full potential – so even if you don’t feel you match all the requirements of the job role, we’d still love to hear from you.

At Ashfords, we’re committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to succeed.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or would like to discuss anything regarding your application, please contact us at talentattraction@ashfords.co.uk.

For an informal and confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Toby Tompkins, Talent Attraction Manager - t.tompkins@ashfords.co.uk.

Or apply now, and we will be in touch with you as soon as possible.