Planning Lawyer

Planning Lawyer

Horsham Full-Time 48618 - 55710 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide expert legal advice on planning and development issues while managing a diverse caseload.
  • Company: Join Southwark Council, London's largest local authority social landlord, committed to tackling inequalities.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible home working and travel to our London Bridge HQ, plus competitive salary.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a diverse team focused on justice and community support.
  • Qualifications: Must have a current practicing certificate and strong understanding of local government law.
  • Other info: Guaranteed interviews for specific groups to promote inclusion and diversity.

The predicted salary is between 48618 - 55710 ÂŁ per year.

Bakewell/Hybrid

Are you a qualified lawyer with a passion for planning law or a newly qualified lawyer wanting to develop into a planning specialism? Would you like a caseload of planning work that has a unique quality involving protected landscapes in a National Park? If so, we have a rewarding role as our Planning Lawyer that could be for you.

The Role

As the body responsible for conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Peak District National Park, the work we undertake in the legal team is unique. In this role, you will be responsible for providing high quality legal advice and representation in a wide variety of planning, environmental and minerals related matters, all of which involve consideration of the special qualities of our protected landscape. In particular, you can expect to be undertaking S106 and associated Agreements, all methods of planning enforcement and litigation, and attending and advising at Planning Committee (meetings are held on weekdays in day-time hours). This is a key role within our legal team working alongside experienced, forward-thinking colleagues, all of which have the collective aim of preserving and protecting our National Park.

About You

We are seeking a fully qualified solicitor, barrister or CILEX with knowledge and experience of and/or a keen interest in planning law and practice. You should have experience of providing accurate, solutions-focused legal advice, together with excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build and maintain positive stakeholder relationships. You will possess strong technical skills and be able to demonstrate exceptional organisation skills as well as high attention to detail and a strong practical approach to your workload.

Experience of working for a National Park is not essential; we welcome applications from all practice backgrounds and recognise the value, insight and breadth of knowledge that this brings. Similarly, whilst experience of advocacy and other specific elements of this role are desirable, if you have transferable skills and a willingness to learn, we will provide you with the training and mentoring to develop your skills, enabling you to excel in this role and progress your career.

About Us

Our legal team is highly regarded throughout the Authority as professional and reliable, delivering an excellent legal service, with every member of the team having a positive, “can-do” attitude and adopting a problem-solving approach to any challenge presented.

We have a positive and supportive culture within our legal team, sharing knowledge and best practices regularly. We are a true team, with the collective ambition of continuous improvement to provide an exemplar legal service to the Authority. Everyone is encouraged to share creative and innovative ideas to improve our team and the delivery of our legal service.

The Peak District National Park was the first of Britain’s 15 national parks and is still enjoyed by millions, looking for both adventure and a breathing space to escape. It is also the most accessible due its proximity to four major cities of the UK and its 38,000 residents. We recognise the importance of our national park, and our job is to speak up and care for the Peak District National Park for all to enjoy forever.

Further Information

If you have any questions about the role, please contact our HR Team at . No agencies at this time please.

Benefits

  • This post offers a ÂŁ5,000 golden hello payment; please see terms and conditions on our website for further information.

We operate a hybrid working model and enjoy a healthy work-life balance. We offer a range of staff benefits including flexitime, a high-quality defined benefit pension scheme, 26-31 days’ holiday, plus Bank Holidays and the option to purchase more, as well as volunteering leave and free parking at most of our offices. Please check out our Total Reward Brochure to see what else we offer.

Our Values

  • Care – We care for the Peak District National Park, the people we work with and all those we serve. It’s at the heart of everything we do.
  • Enjoy – We take pride in what we do and feel good about our contribution.
  • Pioneer – We were born of pioneers. We will continue to explore opportunities to inspire future generations.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Peak District National Park Authority is committed to equal opportunities. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us.

We are a Disability Confident employer and guarantee to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the essential criteria for the role.

If you are unable to apply online and require a word version of the application form, please contact #J-18808-Ljbffr

Planning Lawyer employer: Lawyers In Local Government

At Southwark Council, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values diversity and inclusion, offering a supportive work culture where your contributions truly matter. As a Planning Lawyer, you'll enjoy flexible home working while engaging with a dynamic team dedicated to tackling inequalities in our vibrant London community. With opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to social justice, Southwark Council is the perfect place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
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Contact Detail:

Lawyers In Local Government Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Planning Lawyer

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarize yourself with the specific planning laws and regulations that apply to local government. Understanding the nuances of these laws will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the field of planning law, especially those who have experience working with local councils. This can provide you with valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on current issues and trends in planning and development within London. Being knowledgeable about recent cases or legislative changes can set you apart during discussions with interviewers.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your experience managing a diverse caseload and how you've successfully navigated complex legal challenges in the past. Concrete examples will showcase your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.

We think you need these skills to ace Planning Lawyer

Current Practising Certificate as a Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives
Strong Understanding of Local Government Law
Expertise in Planning Law and Highways
Post-Qualification Experience in Planning Law
Stakeholder Relationship Management
Caseload Management
Performance Target Achievement
Exceptional Problem-Solving Skills
Strategic Thinking
Risk Management and Critical Analysis
Knowledge of Section 106, Section 278, and Section 38 Agreements
Experience with Planning Appeals and Judicial Reviews
Compliance with Lexcel Standards
Ability to Work in a Diverse Team

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Planning Lawyer at Southwark Council. Familiarize yourself with planning law and local government regulations to tailor your application effectively.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your post-qualification experience in planning law. Provide specific examples of cases you've managed, particularly those involving section 106, section 278, and section 38 agreements.

Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrate your exceptional problem-solving skills in your application. Include instances where you've successfully navigated complex legal challenges or provided strategic insights on planning issues.

Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a personalized cover letter that reflects your understanding of Southwark Council's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Mention how your values align with their mission, especially regarding tackling inequalities in the community.

How to prepare for a job interview at Lawyers In Local Government

✨Understand Planning Law

Make sure you have a solid grasp of planning law, especially in relation to local government. Be prepared to discuss recent changes in legislation and how they impact council services.

✨Showcase Your Experience

Highlight your post-qualification experience in planning law. Be ready to share specific examples of cases you've managed and the outcomes, demonstrating your ability to handle a diverse caseload.

✨Build Relationships

Emphasize your skills in building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with committees, councillors, and other officers in previous roles.

✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills

Be ready to showcase your exceptional problem-solving abilities. Think of examples where you've had to use sound judgment and critical analysis to manage risks or tackle complex legal challenges.

Planning Lawyer
Lawyers In Local Government
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