Planning Partner

Planning Partner | International Law Firm | London

A leading UK and international law firm is seeking to appoint an experienced Planning Law Partner to join its established and highly regarded London office. This is a strategic senior hire, offering an excellent platform for an ambitious partner to further develop their practice within a supportive, well-resourced and collaborative environment.

The Firm

This full-service law firm has a strong domestic and international presence, advising a diverse client base that includes multinational corporations, developers, financial institutions, public bodies, and high-net-worth individuals. Known for its client-first approach and sector expertise, the firm has built a strong reputation across real estate, infrastructure, private wealth, and specialist industries.

With a longstanding heritage and a modern outlook, the firm combines technical excellence with a genuinely collegiate culture. Its planning team is particularly well integrated with real estate, construction, and disputes colleagues, enabling seamless delivery on complex, high-value development projects across the UK.

The Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for a Planning Partner with a proven track record and a portable client following of circa £500,000 to join a growing and forward-thinking team.

You will play a key role in shaping the future of the planning practice, working closely with other senior stakeholders while benefiting from the firm’s strong existing client relationships and cross-referral opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advising on a broad range of planning law matters, including major development schemes, infrastructure projects, and regeneration work
• Acting on compulsory purchase orders (CPOs), planning appeals, and judicial review matters
• Providing strategic advice on National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and related legislative developments
• Supporting clients including developers, landowners, promoters, local authorities, and investors
• Collaborating with colleagues across real estate, construction, and litigation teams to deliver a joined-up service
• Leading client relationships and contributing to business development initiatives
• Mentoring and developing junior lawyers within the team

About You:

• UK qualified solicitor with significant experience in planning law
• Existing client following of at least £500,000
• Strong technical expertise across contentious and non-contentious planning matters
• Commercially minded with a strategic approach to client development
• A collaborative team player who values a collegiate and supportive culture
• Keen to play an active role in the growth and direction of the practice

Why Apply?

• Join a well-established yet growing planning team with high-quality work
• Access to a strong pipeline of major development and infrastructure projects
• Genuine opportunity to shape and expand your practice
• Collaborative culture with excellent cross-referral networks
• Competitive remuneration and partnership package
• Long-term career development within a firm that values autonomy and entrepreneurship

This role represents an excellent opportunity for an established Planning Partner or an ambitious Legal Director/Senior Associate ready to step up, looking to align their practice with a firm that offers both stability and growth.

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please get in touch.

BCL Legal is an equal opportunities employer.