Overview
Associate – Public Law, Environment & Planning – Cardiff – 2+ PQE
Location: Cardiff (Hybrid)
Type of Role: Permanent, Full-time
Salary: £50,000 – £70,000 (dependent on experience)
Chadwick Nott is recruiting for a 2+ PQE Associate to join a leading national law firm’s Public Law, Environment & Planning team in Cardiff. This is a standout opportunity for a lawyer who wants to work on complex, high-value planning matters that influence infrastructure, development, and public policy across the UK.
You’ll be part of a firm with a strong reputation in the public sector, known for delivering commercially focused advice in a fast-evolving regulatory landscape. The Cardiff office offers access to national clients and high-profile projects, with a culture that supports autonomy, flexibility, and career progression.
The Role
You’ll advise public and private sector clients on a broad range of planning law matters, including:
- 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
This is a hands-on role with real responsibility and visibility across the firm’s wider public law offering.
What You’ll Bring
- 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
Why Join
- Work on nationally significant planning and infrastructure projects
- Be part of a team respected for its technical expertise and strategic thinking
- Access excellent training and development opportunities
- Enjoy hybrid working and a culture that values autonomy and flexibility
- Competitive salary between £50,000 and £70,000, with a clear progression path
Contact
To discuss this opportunity in confidence, please contact:
0117 917 1515 / 07711 799761
Olivia Reed | LinkedIn
Chadwick Nott is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion across the legal profession. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background. Where a level of experience is indicated, this is intended as a guideline only.
*At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, disability, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.*
Job Tenure: Permanent and Full-Time
Salary: £50000 – £70000 per annum
Location: Cardiff,
