Planning Vacancy | Senior Associate | Southwest | Tier 1 Team | Hybrid

QED Legal; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Real Estate practice in the UK is seeking a Senior Associate to join their Planning team. This role offers the chance to work on landmark projects including offshore wind farms and complex waste schemes, with a focus on career progression and work-life balance. Join a collaborative firm that values flexibility and a people-focused approach while shaping national infrastructure.

Qualifications

• Experience in planning, infrastructure, or environmental law required.
• Solid grasp of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 essential.
• Familiarity with the Planning Act 2008 is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Advise on high-profile matters including Development Consent Orders and planning litigation.
• Review environmental statements and advise on planning agreements.
• Support junior team members and contribute to collaborative projects.

Skills

Planning Law

Environmental Law

Infrastructure Law

Education

Qualified Solicitor

Job description

Planning Vacancy | Senior Associate | Southwest | Tier 1 Team | Hybrid

I’m keen to speak with experienced Planning Lawyers interested in joining one of the UK’s leading Real Estate practices. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a nationally recognised team advising on landmark projects across infrastructure, residential development, environmental planning, and regeneration - with the benefits ofbeing based regionally.

You’ll be working on a broad portfolio of high-profile matters, from offshore wind farms and new transport infrastructure to garden villages, airport expansions, and complex waste and energy schemes. The role will see you advising on Development Consent Orders, compulsory acquisitions, Environmental Impact Assessments, and planning litigation including judicial reviews and Lands Chamber proceedings. You’ll also play a strategic role in shaping projects from the ground up - reviewing environmental statements, advising on planning agreements, and helping manage delivery across the wider national real estate group.

The ideal candidate will have experience in planning, infrastructure, or environmental law, with a solid grasp of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and ideally some familiarity with the Planning Act 2008. You’ll be comfortable advising on Section 106 and highway agreements, handling inquiries and judicial reviews, and supporting junior team members as they grow.

This is a genuinely collaborative and people-focused firm with a reputation for being down-to-earth and forward-thinking. Hybrid working is standard and flexibility around working patterns is welcomed.

If you’re a Planning Lawyer looking for a role with real variety, career progression, and the chance to work on major national projects without sacrificing work-life balance, this is not to be missed.