Solicitor - Planning, Highways & Property

Job Title: Solicitor (Planning, Highways and Property)
Salary: Up to 48,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Contract Type: Locum
Location: Widnes (Hybrid working available)

Halton Borough Council is seeking a capable and committed Solicitor to join our Legal Services team on a locum basis. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a high-performing and supportive legal team, working primarily across planning and highways law, with the possibility of involvement in property work depending on your experience.

About the Role

You will provide legal advice and services in relation to the Council's planning and highway functions, including the drafting of complex legal agreements and representing the authority in related litigation. This role offers flexible hybrid working with a base in Widnes, ensuring a good work-life balance.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise officers and members on planning and highway matters, including development management, enforcement, traffic regulation, and public rights of way.
• Draft and negotiate legal agreements, including section 106, section 278 and section 38 agreements.
• (Subject to experience) Undertake property law work, including legal support for regeneration projects and Compulsory Purchase Orders.
• Represent the Council in appeals, judicial reviews and statutory challenges.
• Deliver training and contribute to continuous legal service improvement.
• Keep abreast of legal developments affecting service provision.

What We're Looking For

Essential:

• Qualified Solicitor or Barrister.
• Experience in planning and highways law.
• Strong legal drafting, analytical and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a varied caseload.

Desirable:

• Experience advising in a local authority or similar setting.
• Familiarity with property law, including housing and regeneration schemes.
• Knowledge of section 278 and 38 agreements.
• IT literacy and an understanding of legal practice management systems.

Other Requirements

• Ability to attend evening meetings as required.
• A full UK driving licence.

This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a forward-thinking local authority, offering meaningful legal work that makes a tangible difference to the community.

Connect2Haltonis a trading style of Halton & Kent Commercial Services LLP- A joint venture between Halton Borough Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Halton is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.