Senior Planning Lawyer (Environmental) – Bristol – 5+ PQE

Overview

In this role you will lead environmental planning work for nationally significant infrastructure, shaping outcomes for major projects. You join a specialist Real Estate Planning team known for high-profile developments and close collaboration with energy and infrastructure practices. You will advise on EIA strategy, risk management, and consent regimes, including DCO/NSIP and related processes. The position offers hybrid working and a clear path for professional growth in a supportive, wellbeing-focused culture. This is a chance to influence large-scale development while working with top-tier clients on complex environmental challenges.

Pay / Benefits

• Minimum 25 days holiday (with option to buy additional days)
• Discretionary bonus scheme
• Generous pension scheme
• Private medical insurance
• Biennial private health assessments
• Life assurance

Responsibilities

• Lead environmental planning work for nationally significant infrastructure projects
• Advise on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) strategy and documentation
• Review SEA/HRA and manage environmental risk
• Secure environmental outcomes through conditions and s106 agreements (including BNG and nutrient neutrality)
• Shape and support DCO/NSIP applications, examinations and stakeholder engagement
• Manage environmental issues in appeals and Judicial Review proceedings
• Collaborate with the energy and infrastructure practice and support team growth

Key requirements

• 5+ years PQE within a planning or environmental planning team
• Experience advising on large-scale infrastructure projects
• Proven experience leading EIAs
• Knowledge of habitat regulations and assessment processes
• Broader experience across consenting regimes (DCOs, TWAOs, HROs, planning permissions)
• Sector experience in transport (rail/light rail) and energy (renewables, transmission) is advantageous
• Strong understanding of the NPPF and current planning reforms
• Strong communication and collaborative working within a national team

• strong communication
• collaborative
• team-oriented
• environmental planning
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
• SEA/HRA

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