Planning Lawyer

Planning Lawyer | International Law Firm | City of London

A prestigious international law firm is seeking a talented Planning Associate or Senior Associate to join its highly ranked Planning team in the City of London. This is an exceptional opportunity for a planning lawyer looking to work on headline-grabbing infrastructure and development projects, alongside some of the most respected practitioners in the field.

This role sits within a market-leading Planning team that is consistently recognised in the legal directories for its outstanding work on large-scale and complex projects. Acting for a premium client base of top-tier developers, real estate investors, and public sector bodies, the team advises on the full range of planning matters with a strong focus on major infrastructure, regeneration, and strategic land development.

With access to a truly global platform, including cross-border collaboration with colleagues in New York, Paris, and the Middle East, this is a rare chance to combine City-quality work with international reach.

Key Responsibilities:

- Advise on nationally significant infrastructure projects, including Development Consent Orders (DCOs)
- Devise and deliver planning strategies for major urban regeneration schemes
- Support on contentious planning matters, including judicial reviews and land compensation claims
- Draft and negotiate statutory agreements (such as s106 and s278 agreements)
- Advise on compulsory purchase powers, environmental law issues, and planning aspects of real estate and finance transactions

Candidate Requirements:

- A minimum of 2 years' PQE in planning law, ideally gained within a recognised City or leading planning team
- A strong academic background and proven technical excellence
- Experience working on significant development or infrastructure projects
- A commercial, solutions-focused mindset with excellent drafting and advisory skills
- Confidence working autonomously on complex matters and as part of a high-performing team
- A proactive, client-focused approach and the ability to build trusted relationships

The Opportunity:

- Join a Chambers-ranked Planning team at the forefront of the sector
- Work on some of the most significant planning and infrastructure projects in the UK and internationally
- Benefit from a genuinely collaborative and inclusive culture
- Access clear career progression and ongoing professional development at a firm known for investing in its people
- Enjoy a flexible, hybrid working model and market-leading benefits

This is a career-defining role for a Planning Lawyer looking to elevate their practice within a global law firm that combines cutting-edge work with a supportive environment.

If you're a planning solicitor ready for the next step in your career, we'd love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion or more information, please get in touch.

BCL Legal is an equal opportunities employer.