At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal advice on planning and highways law, attend meetings, and support junior team members.
- Company: Join Herefordshire Council's vibrant and collaborative Legal Services Team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a modern workplace while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Solicitor, Legal Executive, or barrister with planning law expertise.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with relocation support and various employee perks.
The predicted salary is between 46300 - 50800 £ per year.
Herefordshire Council is seeking an experienced Planning Lawyer to join their dedicated and friendly Planning & Highways Team within Legal Services. The Council is a modern, vibrant workplace where creativity and collaboration is actively encouraged and staff feel engaged and empowered. Employees are provided with choice, tools and the environment to deliver remotely or flexibly.
Key responsibilities of the Planning Lawyer will include:
- Provide advice to councillors, stakeholders and senior officers and liaise with external bodies and legal advisers.
- Attend decision-making meetings including Planning Committee remotely or in person if required.
- Undertake advocacy on contentious planning and highway matters, draft documents and review Cabinet and Planning Committee Reports.
- Contribute to the improvement of the Legal Services Team.
- Support junior members of the team including the Legal Apprentice in legal practice and procedure contributing towards their professional development.
You will provide legal advice and assistance on a wide range of issues, varying in complexity including but not limited to:
- Advice on large scale redevelopment schemes, CPOs, listed buildings, land contamination.
- Drafting of S106 and Highway Agreements.
- Planning enforcement work and planning/highway prosecutions.
- Dealing with Appeals and Public Inquiries.
- Lawful Development Certificates, TPO advice.
- Judicial Review, High Court proceedings, governance and other areas of legal practice.
Required experience for the ideal Planning Lawyer should include:
- Expertise in planning and highways law.
- Must be either a Solicitor or Legal Executive who is a fellow of CiLEX or a qualified barrister.
- No specific PQE stipulated; applications welcome from candidates at any stage of their career.
In return, benefits that come alongside the Planning Lawyer role will include:
- Basic salary of £51,356 to £55,915 dependent on experience.
- This is a hybrid role with flexible attendance - no fixed weekly requirement to be in the office.
- Relocation packages: support of up to £5,000.
- Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Professional development - a comprehensive training and development programme.
- Generous annual leave: 31 days annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays. Option to purchase an additional 10 days per annum (pro rata).
- Flexible working.
- Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 access to support and counselling.
- Payment of professional membership fees.
- Pick your perks - access to a range of retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits, including savings, cash back and discounts.
How to apply for the Planning Lawyer role:
If you have the required experience and would like to apply for this role, you can apply within. Alternatively, for a confidential chat about the role or what it’s like to work at the council, you can contact Natalie Delaney in the Sellick Partnership office.
Sellick Partnership is proud to be an inclusive and accessible recruitment business and we support applications from candidates of all backgrounds and circumstances.
Planning Lawyer - Permanent employer: Sellick Partnership
Contact Detail:
Sellick Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Lawyer - Permanent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work in planning and highways. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of planning law and recent cases. We want you to feel confident discussing your expertise and how it applies to the role at Herefordshire Council.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your soft skills! Being a Planning Lawyer isn’t just about legal knowledge; it’s also about communication and teamwork. Be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that perfect role.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Lawyer - Permanent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Planning Lawyer role. Highlight your experience in planning and highways law, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications or specialisms that make you stand out!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills align with the responsibilities listed. Keep it engaging and personal – we want to see your personality!
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in planning law. Whether it's drafting agreements or handling appeals, concrete examples will help us see your capabilities.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sellick Partnership
✨Know Your Planning Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of planning and highways law. Familiarise yourself with recent cases, legislation, and any relevant local policies that Herefordshire Council might be dealing with. This will show your passion for the role and your commitment to staying updated in your field.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific planning scenarios or legal challenges. Think about past experiences where you've provided legal advice or dealt with contentious issues. Prepare concise examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to advocate effectively.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since the role involves supporting junior members and collaborating with various stakeholders, be ready to discuss your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've mentored others or worked collaboratively to achieve a common goal. This will demonstrate your fit within their friendly and engaging workplace culture.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the current projects the Planning & Highways Team is working on or how they measure success in their legal services. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.