4 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• A skilled and experienced Senior Development Management Officer is required to support the Planning Policy and Development Management functions within a local authority.
• This hybrid role focuses on handling complex planning applications and contributing to local plan objectives through effective policy research, consultation, and project delivery.
• The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of the English Planning System and at least a Licentiate membership of the RTPI or equivalent.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Lead and manage planning policy projects and workstreams, producing evidence documents and contributing to the development of planning and design guidance.
• Provide professional planning advice and policy observations on more complex applications.
• Assist in the delivery and implementation of adopted policies and contribute to local plan reviews and infrastructure delivery plans.
• Prepare reports, appeal statements, and evidence for planning inquiries and hearings.
• Facilitate public participation exercises and engage with community stakeholders and neighbourhood planning groups.
• Maintain and analyse planning databases and monitoring systems to inform decision-making.
• Provide guidance to other council departments and participate in cross-functional corporate projects.
• Contribute to special projects, procurement of consultants, and development of digital planning tools including GIS.
Skills/Experience:
• Extensive experience in managing significant or complex planning applications or planning policy projects.
• Strong knowledge of the English Planning System and current planning legislation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and stakeholder engagement.
• Confident negotiator with proven ability to deliver planning improvements.
• Competence in using planning software, databases, and Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
• Ability to travel independently to site visits and meetings as required.
• Capable of undertaking physical site inspections, including use of ladders and navigating uneven terrain.
Additional Information:
• Degree (or equivalent qualification) in Town Planning or related field, allowing access to RTPI membership.
• Licentiate membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (or equivalent) required, Chartered Membership desirable.
• Hours: 37 hours per week (Monday–Friday, 9:00–17:30).
• Office-based and field work required; hybrid working may be possible.