Job Description

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 Shared Legal Services team for Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council.
We are ambitious, dynamic and innovative local authorities. 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.
This is a permanent, part time role, 29.5 hours per week.
Please note this post is politically restricted.
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact James Tong, Principal Lawyer (Planning) on 01483 444903.
We do not accept CVs without a completed application form. Strictly no agencies please.
Closing date for applications: 16 December 2025
Interview date: TBC
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 -
The boroughs are 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
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
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.
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.

Skills Required