Associate – Public Law, Environment & Planning, Cardiff

Overview

In this role you will support a leading national law firm’s Public Law, Environment & Planning practice in Cardiff. You will handle complex planning work that influences infrastructure, development, and public policy across the UK, with exposure to national clients from a Cardiff hub. The role combines drafting, litigation, and advisory work in a fast-evolving regulatory landscape, with autonomy, hybrid working, and clear progression. You’ll join a team known for technical excellence and practical, commercially focused advice.

Pay / Benefits

• hybrid working
• autonomy and flexibility
• training and development opportunities
• career progression
• competitive salary
• friendly and professional culture

Responsibilities

• Drafting and negotiating s106 and s278/38 infrastructure agreements
• Supporting real estate teams with planning due diligence
• Advising on highways law, compulsory purchase, and general planning issues
• Handling judicial reviews and statutory challenges
• Preparing planning reports, court documents, and litigation bundles
• Managing deadlines and ensuring procedural compliance
• Hands-on role with visibility across the firm’s public law offering

Key requirements

• 2+ years PQE in planning law or related public law matters
• Strong drafting and litigation skills
• Confidence working directly with clients, including local authorities and developers
• Commercial awareness and attention to detail
• Ability to manage deadlines and juggle competing priorities
• Willingness to travel to other offices when needed

• Clear communicator with clients and colleagues
• Strong attention to detail
• Effective time management and prioritization
• Drafting and negotiation of infrastructure agreements (s106, s278/38)
• Planning due diligence
• Highways law

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