Job Description

About Ashurst

Ashurst is a leading progressive global law firm with a rich history spanning more than 200 years. We are proud of our history and are future-focused, having expanded into new technologies through our NewLaw division, Ashurst Advance, and our consulting arm. Our in-depth understanding of our clients and commitment to providing excellent standards of service have seen us become a trusted adviser to local and global corporates, financial institutions and governments in all areas of commercial law. To find out more please visit .

Team overview

Ashurst Reach is the firm's dedicated flexible legal resourcing platform which provides the firm and its clients with access to a high quality talent pool of consultant lawyers and paralegals. We understand that our clients need access to highly qualified lawyers, project managers and paralegals, often at short notice and/or for short periods, whether that be to meet internal demands, backfill leave, provide cover during recruitment or to assist with projects. We deliver a seamless, fast and trusted solution to these issues.

Essential skills and experience

We are seeking an experienced Planning Lawyer to join our team on a 12-month fixed-term contract, supporting a major energy project. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in the delivery of a Development Consent Order (DCO) for an infrastructure project. You will work closely with project managers, technical consultants, and external stakeholders to ensure the successful progression of the DCO process.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide expert legal advice on all aspects of planning law, with a particular focus on the DCO regime under the Planning Act 2008. Draft, review, and negotiate a range of legal documents, including DCO applications, supporting statements, and agreements with stakeholders. Advise on environmental, land, and property issues Liaise with regulatory authorities, local planning authorities, and other statutory consultees. Support the project team in managing legal risks and ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and guidance.

Key Requirements:

UK-qualified planning lawyer with 5+ years' PQE Demonstrable experience advising on DCO applications and nationally significant infrastructure projects. Strong understanding of the Planning Act 2008 and related environmental and property law.

Benefits of Consulting with Ashurst Reach

Flexible career options

- Receive greater variety, choice and control over how and when you work, balancing career goals and lifestyle.

Personalised service

- Collaborate closely with Ashurst Reach to realise your professional goals.

Top-tier support

- Have the backing of a global firm with a reputation for high performance, a wealth of industry experience and a refreshingly open and diverse culture.

Recruitment Process

Upon receiving your CV, one of our Talent team members will reach out for an introductory call to discuss the full recruitment process. Following this, we will invite you to an interview with the Reach leadership team.



If you require any reasonable adjustments to be made during this process, please let us know.

Background checks

In order to comply with regulatory and client requirements, Ashurst Reach, alongside a specialist provider, will undertake professional verification and background checks. These checks are only undertaken with consent, and in accordance with our legal and regulatory obligations.