Planning Associate

Planning Associate | International Law Firm | City of London A leading international law firm is looking to appoint a Planning Associate to join its highly regarded Real Estate team in London. This is an excellent opportunity for a planning lawyer who wants to work at the forefront of the UK development market, advising on some of the most complex, high-profile and innovative projects in the country. The role offers genuine exposure to strategic planning work, close collaboration with market-leading real estate lawyers, and the chance to build a long-term career within a global, collegiate practice that invests heavily in its people. The London planning team sits at the heart of the firm's real estate practice and plays a key role in advising on major development and infrastructure projects across the UK. The team is involved in work spanning offshore wind, urban regeneration, life sciences developments, prime commercial real estate and large residential-led schemes. As a Planning Associate, you will work on a broad mix of advisory, transactional and contentious planning matters, with significant responsibility and direct client exposure. You will be supported by partners who are recognised leaders in the field and encouraged to develop your own technical expertise, client relationships and professional profile. You can expect to be involved in: - Advising on complex planning issues affecting large-scale, multi-use developments - Negotiating and drafting section 106 agreements, including affordable housing and other infrastructure obligations - Advising on community infrastructure levy (CIL), heritage and listed building issues, compulsory purchase and related planning principles - Negotiating a range of development-related agreements, including highways and sewer agreements - Advising on highways matters, including stopping up and related statutory processes - Supporting real estate transactions, including planning due diligence and drafting planning elements of transactional documentation - Advising on planning appeals, public inquiries and hearings - Providing strategic planning advice on infrastructure and development projects (experience with DCOs is advantageous but not essential) - You will also be encouraged to contribute to business development through client training, seminars, articles and thought leadership. This role will suit a high-calibre planning lawyer who is keen to progress within a top-tier real estate practice. You are likely to have: - 4-6 years' post-qualification experience (or equivalent) in planning law - A strong academic background (minimum 2:1 degree or equivalent) - Excellent drafting and technical planning skills - Experience advising on major developments and planning agreements - The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across real estate and other practice areas - Confidence dealing directly with clients and building long-term relationships - An interest in developing your professional profile through knowledge sharing and client engagement The firm is known for its supportive, inclusive and genuinely collaborative culture. Planning lawyers are fully integrated into the wider real estate practice and are encouraged to take ownership of their work and career progression. You will benefit from structured training, high-quality supervision and clear opportunities for advancement within a global platform. Agile and hybrid working is supported, with flexibility built into the firm's working practices. The firm offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, alongside excellent training, career development and a modern working environment. If you are a Planning Associate in London (or relocating to London) and are looking to step into a role offering complex work, international exposure and long-term career prospects, this is an opportunity well worth exploring. BCL Legal is an equal opportunities employer.