DCO & Real Estate Legal Counsel

DCO & Real Estate Legal Counsel – Contract – London Location: London This is an excellent opportunity to join a world leading renewable and alternative energy company supporting a large scale, green energy project. The role requires a strong understanding of the DCO application process and will be based in our clients offices in central London ¾ days per week. The role is deemed as being outside IR35. Role & Responsibilities Leading the DCO and real-estate workstreams for the project including as follows: Development Consent Order (DCO) * Leading the DCO and real-estate workstreams for the project including. * Independently lead legal strategy and execution for DCO application of the Project under the Planning Act 2008, with limited oversight from Senior Legal Counsel. * Review and negotiate DCO documentation including protective provisions. * Advise on all aspects of the DCO statutory consultation, environmental impact assessments, and stakeholder engagement. * Participate in representing the organisation in hearings and examinations before the Planning Inspectorate. * Liaise with internal project teams, external counsel, and government bodies to ensure timely and compliant DCO submissions. * Lead development of responses to examination questions in the DCO Real Estate * Manage legal aspects of land acquisition, including compulsory purchase, option agreements, leases, and easements. * Conduct due diligence on property titles, access rights, and land ownership. * Negotiate and draft property-related contracts and support land assembly strategies. * Advise on land registration, property disputes, and rights of way. * Collaborate with surveyors, planners, and external legal advisors to facilitate smooth land transactions. Other * Whilst the focus will be on DCO and real estate the selected candidate may be required to work on other areas of work for an in-house legal team such as review of NDAs, commercial terms and conditions, and miscellaneous legal matters. Key Skills & Knowledge * Must have strong understanding of the DCO application and approval process. * Previous experience working in the energy sector would be highly advantageous. Additional Information The role is considered to be outside IR35