All About the Role: Solicitor- Planning, Highways & Property

In this blog, we’ll cover:

• What a Planning, Highways & Property Solicitor does day to day in Halton
• Why this role is important for the local council and developers
• The key skills and qualities that make a successful Solicitor in this field
• How Connect2Halton can help you find your next legal opportunity

Working as a Planning, Highways & Property Solicitor in Halton is a dynamic and rewarding career. You’ll be at the heart of decisions that shape the local areas, from advising on development projects to navigating legal issues around land, highways and property. Every day brings a mix of legal research, client consultations and problem-solving, allowing you to make a tangible contribution to the community and local infrastructure.

Solicitors in this field within Halton often collaborate with council departments, developers and local stakeholders, ensuring that projects are legally sound and in the best interest of the borough. It’s a role that combines technical expertise with practical solutions, offering both professional growth and the chance to contribute to the long-term development of the area.

Day-to-Day Life of a Planning, Highways & Property Solicitor in Halton

A typical day in this role involves a mix of legal advisory work, client communication, and case management. You’ll spend time reviewing contracts, drafting agreements, and ensuring that property and development projects comply with relevant legislation. Collaboration is key; you’ll regularly liaise with council departments, developers, and other stakeholders to provide guidance and resolve legal issues efficiently.

Some of the tasks you might carry out include:

• Drafting and reviewing contracts, deeds and planning agreements.
• Advising on property acquisitions, disposals or leases.
• Ensuring compliance with planning, highways and environmental regulations.
• Representing the council or clients in meetings, negotiations or hearings.
• Conducting legal research and preparing reports or recommendations.

Working in Halton gives Solicitors the opportunity to directly influence local development, ensuring projects benefit both the council and the wider community. Each case presents new challenges and opportunities, keeping the work varied and engaging.

What Are the Biggest Challenges of the Role?

Working within this role can be highly rewarding, but it also comes with its challenges. One of the main difficulties is managing multiple complex cases at the same time, often involving competing interests between developers, council departments, and the local community. Each project can present unique legal, regulatory, or environmental considerations, requiring careful attention to detail and the ability to provide practical, compliant advice.

In Halton, Solicitors often navigate the complexities of a borough that balances urban development with community needs. This can involve advising on large-scale housing or infrastructure projects, addressing planning objections, and ensuring compliance with highways and property regulations. Keeping up to date with evolving legislation and council policies is essential, as is maintaining strong communication with stakeholders to prevent disputes and delays. While the work can be challenging, it is also highly impactful, helping projects run smoothly and contributing to the sustainable growth and well-being of Halton’s communities.

Why this role is important for local councils and developers

Solicitors in this field play a key role in shaping Halton’s local environment and infrastructure. Their work ensures that development projects, road networks, and property transactions comply with legal requirements, protecting both the council and the wider community. By providing expert guidance, Solicitors help make sure that new housing, commercial developments, and public projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and in a way that benefits residents.

This role also helps prevent legal disputes and delays, meaning that essential projects, from road improvements to community facilities, can progress smoothly. In Halton, Solicitors in this field support sustainable growth, ensure fairness in property dealings, and contribute to the long-term planning of the borough. Their expertise has a direct impact on the quality of life for local residents and the success of local initiatives.

Qualifications that you’ll need for this role

To work as a Planning, Highways & Property Solicitor, you’ll need a recognised law degree (LLB) or equivalent qualification, followed by completion of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) or the traditional Legal Practice Course (LPC). These qualifications provide the essential foundation in law, covering everything from property and contract law to regulatory and planning legislation.

Experience or specialised knowledge in planning, highways, or property law is highly valuable. Roles in Halton often benefit from candidates who understand local council procedures, planning policies, and the specific needs of the borough’s communities. Many positions prefer Solicitors who have advised councils, developers, or organisations involved in property or infrastructure projects. Practical skills like legal research, drafting contracts, and interpreting legislation remain essential, but having insight into Halton’s local context allows Solicitors to provide advice that supports both compliance and the sustainable development of the borough.

Key skills and qualities that make a successful Solicitor in this field

To succeed in this role, a Solicitor needs a combination of legal expertise, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal skills. Analytical thinking and problem-solving are essential for interpreting complex legislation and providing practical advice on property and development matters. Excellent communication skills help you liaise effectively with council teams, developers, and other stakeholders, ensuring everyone understands the legal requirements and implications.

Some of the key skills and qualities include:

• Technical legal knowledge- Understanding property, planning and highways.
• Attention to detail- Drafting contracts and agreements accurately.
• Negotiation skills- Resolving disputes and reaching mutually beneficial agreements.
• Project management- Making multiple cases and deadlines efficiently.
• Interpersonal skills- Building strong relationships with clients, colleagues and local stakeholders.

In Halton, combining these skills with a practical understanding of local policies and community needs allows solicitors to deliver solutions that benefit both the council and the wider borough.

How Connect2Halton can help you find your next legal opportunity

If you’re looking to take the next step in your legal career, Connect2Halton can help you find the right opportunity. We work closely with Halton Council and other local organisations to connect talented Solicitors with roles that match their skills, experience, and career ambitions. Whether you’re seeking a permanent position or a temporary assignment, we provide guidance and support throughout the application process.

By working with Connect2Halton, you’ll gain access to local legal roles where you can make a real difference in the community. From advising on property deals to supporting major infrastructure projects, these positions allow you to apply your expertise while contributing to Halton’s growth and development. Our team can help you navigate opportunities, highlight your strengths, and secure a role that’s both rewarding and impactful.

Meet our consultant: 

• Nicola Fedigan, Business Manager
• 📞 0151 511 7654
• 📧 nicola.fedigan@connect2halton.co.uk

She’ll guide you through the application process, provide insights into current opportunities, and offer ongoing support to help you succeed in your new role.

👉 Explore current Legal opportunities with Connect2Halton HERE 

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👉 Register HERE to stay updated on the latest roles and connect with our consultants.