Highways and Planning Senior Lawyer

ZipRecruiter; England; Hybrid; GBP 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in the United Kingdom is looking for a qualified Senior Solicitor or Lawyer to join their Highways and Planning legal team. The role involves handling legal matters related to highways and planning agreements while working collaboratively with other legal teams. A competitive salary and flexible working arrangements are offered, along with a variety of benefits including generous leave and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

26 days' holiday, increasing with service

Employee Assistance Programme

Generous local government pension

Learning and development hub

Lifestyle discounts including gym and shopping

Qualifications

• Recent legal experience in highways and planning law.
• Ability to handle urgent and unfamiliar issues promptly.
• Experience working with clients at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Handle highways and planning agreements.
• Provide advice on enforcement and related legal matters.
• Manage litigation.

Skills

Legal expertise in highways and planning law

Effective communication skills

Strong organizational skills

Teamwork

Negotiation skills

Education

Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX with a current practicing certificate

Job description

Job Description

This permanent role has a starting salary of £59,868 per annum, based on a 36-hour working week.

We have a great opportunity to join our Highways and Planning legal team as a qualified Senior Solicitor or Lawyer. We are looking for a flexible and motivated colleague to join this friendly team. Our work is interesting and varied, and we work for informed and appreciative client teams.

The Council adopts a hybrid working policy with flexible arrangements, including access to our offices in Reigate and Weybridge, combined with remote or home working. We come together in person for 2 days per week on average (40% of the working week).

Rewards and Benefits:

• 26 days' holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years' service
• Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
• An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Up to 5 days of carer's leave per year
• Paternity, adoption, and dependents leave
• A generous local government salary-related pension
• Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping
• 2 paid volunteering days per year
• Learning and development hub

About the Role

The team supports the County's work as Highway Authority and Minerals and Waste Planning Authority. Lawyers draft highways and planning agreements, advise on enforcement, DCO work, appeals, and litigation, and assist with reports to Committee and Cabinet. We also provide training for client teams and support enforcement actions.

As a Senior Lawyer, you will handle highways and planning agreements, provide advice on enforcement and related legal matters, and manage litigation. You will work collaboratively with other legal teams and advise Members, especially those on the Planning and Regulatory Committee. The work is fast-paced and crucial to the Council's strategic goals.

Shortlisting Criteria

To be considered, your application must demonstrate:

• You are a Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX, with a current practicing certificate in England and Wales;
• Recent legal experience in highways and planning law;
• Experience working with clients at all levels and providing clear, practical advice;
• Effective team working skills;
• Ability to negotiate legal agreements and advise on highways and planning matters;
• Ability to handle urgent and unfamiliar issues promptly;
• Strong organizational skills to meet deadlines.

Please contact us for questions regarding flexible working, transferable skills, or employment barriers.

This advert closes at 23:59 on 10th August 2025.

This position is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.

Local Government Reorganisation

Surrey County Council is preparing for Local Government Reorganisation, which will create new unitary councils from April 2027. This role will transfer to the new council with the same terms and conditions.

Join our team to shape the future of local government, delivering innovative solutions and improved community services.

Our Commitment

We are proud to be a Confident Employer. A guaranteed interview will be offered to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and choose to disclose their disability. We promote inclusivity and diversity and welcome applications from all underrepresented groups.