Job Description

Appointment Type

Permanent Position

Full Time/Part Time

Part-time

Job Category

Legal , Planning

Hours

29.5 hours per week

Location

Millmead House, Millmead, Guildford GU2 4BB, Waverley Borough Council, The Burys, Godalming GU7 9TH

Pay rate

41,167 - 44,115 per annum (FTE 51,634 - 55,331 per annum)

Closing Date

26/10/2025

Ref No

10993

Are you qualified solicitor, barrister, or legal executive with an up-to-date practising certificate?

Are you looking for a role that will actively invest in your professional development?

Are you looking for a role with variety, where you can be relied on for your expertise and experience?

Do your skills include concise communication, an ability to build and maintain trusted relationships with Officers at different levels in the Council, and the ability to advise on matters with a variety of legal issues in a professional manner in all situations, including advising at planning committee?



This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role and make an impact in the Legal Services team at Waverley Borough Council and Guildford Borough Council.



We are an ambitious, dynamic and innovative local authority. Key to our success is our commitment to team working and ongoing development of our high performing, highly engaged workforce, who all share in the delivery of the organisation's values and corporate objectives



As Planning Lawyer, you will join a friendly and supportive team and advise on all aspects of planning law and policy. You will have conduct of your own caseload and deal with varied and stimulating work on the cutting edge of planning law.

Key Responsibilities include:

Provide legal advice and guidance on planning law, policy, and procedures

Draft, review, and negotiate planning agreements, including section 106 agreements

Ensure the proper conduct of planning inquiries, including the provision of advocacy at public hearings

Represent the council in planning committees on a rota basis. The planning committee occur in the evening

Provide advice and assistance to other members of the legal team in respect of planning law matters.




Please note this post is politically restricted.





For an informal discussion about the post, please contact James Tong, Principal Lawyer (Planning) on

01483 444903

.

Closing date for applications:

9:00am on Monday 27th October 2025

Interview date:

w/c 3rd November 2025





In return for your valued contribution, we can offer you a competitive benefits package which includes hybrid working and agile working policies, training and development opportunities, generous annual leave and flexi time, free onsite parking, an employee assistance scheme and membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme. You can find out more about working at Waverley and our benefits by visiting -

Working at Waverley Borough Council | Waverley Borough Council

The district is home to many different people, and we want our workforce to reflect our diverse local communities. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences - we are a Disability Confident employer and appoint on merit. You can find out more about this scheme and check your eligibility

here

We are proud to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving or ex-members of the armed forces and their partners. We offer and interview scheme for serving and ex-military forces members when they meet the essential criteria for the role. You can find out more about this scheme and check your eligibility

here

Please note we do not accept applications after the stated closing time and right to work in the UK will be checked as part of the interview process.

How to apply

To apply for this vacancy, click the "Apply Online" link via https://ats-waverley.jgp.co.uk/vacancies/323244



You will be redirected to the JobsGoPublic system, which manages our online recruitment process. Once you have registered with JobsGoPublic (which is free to use) you can log in to your application at any time and keep track of where you are in the recruitment process.



If you are unable to use this service or would like assistance, please contact us via hr@waverley.gov.uk or call the Human Resources team on 01483 523388.

About Guildford

Guildford is a regional centre for leisure, business, education, shopping and culture set in beautiful countryside that includes the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Guildford is a thriving market town and is a principal shopping destination with a vibrant night time economy. The town's geographical location provides excellent transport links in all directions, London is just 30 minutes away on the train and the town is well-served by frequent bus routes and subsidised Park and Ride facilities. All of this contributes to a quality of life that attracts many people to live, work in and visit Guildford.



We are an equal opportunity and Disability Confident employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need. Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and post-holders to share this commitment. To fulfil this commitment we have robust systems in place for the safe recruitment of staff and volunteers.