Simon Rowland

I specialise in Planning and Highways Law within Wollens’ Regulatory Team, supporting local authorities and developers on complex planning and highways matters. My recent work has focused on drafting, negotiating, and completing legal agreements such as s106, s38, and s278 for major housing and industrial developments. I regularly advise planning and highways officers, and collaborate with organisations like the Land Registry, Local Land Charges, and Internal Drainage Boards to ensure projects progress smoothly.

Prior to joining Wollens, I worked at Pathfinder Legal Services, a public-sector owned law firm serving over 100 organisations. There, I was part of a busy Planning & Highways team, handling modification orders, enforcement actions, dispute resolution, closures and diversions, and all types of highway agreements. My role required a strong understanding of both legal and practical aspects of planning and highways, and I thrived in a collaborative, multi-agency environment.

Earlier in my career, I spent three years as a Legal Assistant in a civil liberties department, supporting partners and fee-earners with legal research, drafting, court filings, and client communications. This experience strengthened my procedural discipline and ability to manage complex caseloads.

My foundation in planning was built at Surrey County Council, where I started as a Planning Technical Support Officer and later became a Planning Regulation 3 Monitoring Officer. I was responsible for monitoring planning applications, ensuring compliance, negotiating remedies for breaches, and producing reports for senior council members. I also played a key role in modernising departmental systems and improving information governance.

I am currently in the latter stages of my CILEX Level 6 studies, working towards qualification as a Chartered Legal Executive. As an Associate Member of CILEX, I am committed to ongoing professional development and excellence in legal practice. In my current role, I work as a paralegal, managing my own caseload and seeking support from colleagues on complex matters.

Outside of work, I am the Head Coach of Teignmouth Women’s Rugby Club, a keen golfer, and enjoy exploring Dartmoor whenever I can.