As a qualified and experienced Solicitor or Barrister specialising in planning and highways law, you will provide proactive, pragmatic and solutions‑based legal advice and support for South Gloucestershire Council. You will also represent the council effectively at tribunals, public inquiries, courts and other relevant forums.
Responsibilities
- Undertake a broad and varied caseload covering all aspects of planning and highways law, including advising on planning applications, planning enforcement and highway matters, and attending inquiries and committee meetings.
- Advise, negotiate and draft a variety of agreements, and advise the council at committee meetings and panels.
- Provide clear and timely advice to planning committees, panels and officers on complex planning and enforcement issues, supporting councillors and officers in developing and reviewing planning‑related policy documents.
- Work closely with counsel and planning officers to support preparation for complex public inquiries, advising on the adequacy of evidence and statements, collating documentation and assisting with case preparation; attend court in relation to planning enforcement proceedings where required.
- Advise on and prepare compulsory purchase orders, determine town and village green applications, and provide legal support across a range of highways‑related matters, including public rights of way.
Qualifications and Experience
- Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with substantial post‑qualification experience in providing legal advice.
- Significant expertise in planning and highways law, together with a sound working knowledge of local government law and practice.
- Proven ability to manage own caseload effectively.
Key Skills
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills, enabling confident and professional engagement with managers, staff, elected members and external partners and agencies.
- Strong analytical skills for assessing complex and high‑risk matters and providing clear, robust advice.
- Emotional resilience to manage sensitive and contentious issues.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave (pro‑rate).
- Employee wellbeing support.
- Range of staff discounts, including eye tests, travel, shopping and leisure activities.
Equal Employment Opportunity
South Gloucestershire Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from everyone. We select, promote and develop individuals on the basis of their merits and abilities.
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