Few areas of law place you closer to the decisions that shape how cities, communities and major infrastructure projects actually develop.

QED Legal is working with a highly regarded planning and public law team that is looking to appoint an experienced solicitor at four years PQE or above. The role can be based in either Edinburgh or Glasgow and offers exposure to major projects across Scotland and the wider UK.

The work is genuinely broad. You may be advising on large residential developments, regeneration schemes, town centre projects, energy infrastructure, transport proposals, compulsory purchase matters and complex mixed-use developments.

The team handles both contentious and non-contentious planning work, giving you the opportunity to advise from the earliest stages of a project through to inquiry, challenge or implementation.

Your practice could include complex planning applications, environmental assessment, planning and infrastructure agreements, compulsory purchase, listed buildings, conservation matters, planning policy and major development proposals. There is also a strong transactional element, with planning due diligence required across commercial property, residential, student accommodation, hotels, retail and renewable energy projects, including wind, solar and battery storage.

On the contentious side, you may become involved in public inquiries, judicial review and other significant planning disputes, working closely with counsel, technical consultants and wider project teams.

The client base includes developers, landowners, investors, public bodies, local authorities, retailers, corporate organisations and community groups. As a result, you will gain a rounded understanding of how planning decisions are approached from each side of the process.

The firm is particularly interested in candidates who are comfortable taking ownership of matters, building relationships and contributing to the continued development of the practice. You will be expected to work independently while remaining part of a supportive and collegiate team, with opportunities to mentor more junior lawyers and develop your own profile in the market.

Dual qualification would be useful, although Scottish-qualified solicitors who are open to securing an additional qualification are also encouraged to apply.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced planning solicitor who wants greater responsibility, first-rate project work and a genuine role in the future growth of an established team.

For a confidential discussion, contact Neil at QED Legal.