Principal Planning Officer

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Planning Officer

Job Purpose:

We are seeking a Principal Planning Officer to join our Development Management Team. The successful candidate will assist and deputise for the Development Management Team Leaders, contributing at a senior level across all aspects of the planning service. This includes handling complex planning applications, policy work, and other corporate responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and prioritise a demanding workload of major and complex cases with minimal supervision.
• Consistently meet performance targets in a high-pressure environment.
• Make recommendations on complex and politically sensitive planning issues.
• Act as an expert witness at planning hearings and public inquiries.
• Negotiate with developers to secure significant planning benefits.
• Supervise and mentor junior planning staff.
• Handle enforcement actions and prepare evidence for appeals.
• Represent the planning service at meetings and working groups.

Person Specification:

• Recognised degree in planning or a related subject.
• Eligible for Royal Town Planning Institute membership.
• Substantial experience as a professional planner, particularly with a local planning authority.
• Proven ability to manage complex planning applications and development proposals.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent analytical and negotiating skills.
• Ability to lead and motivate staff.

Special Requirements:

• No direct budget responsibility, but responsible for negotiating Section 106 agreements for affordable housing and infrastructure provision.

If you are a motivated and experienced planner looking to take on a challenging and rewarding role, we would love to hear from you!