This is a remote position.
Posting Title: Senior Planner
Industry: Planning Consultancy
Salary: £40,000 - £50,000
Work Experience: 2–3 years experience
Location Flexibility: Hybrid – office-based near Leeds a few times per month, with strong remote working capability
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Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Planner to join our dynamic planning consultancy, specialising in rural and estate-based development across the UK.
This role is ideal for a professional with a solid foundation in private sector planning, particularly within rural landscapes, who thrives in a flexible, client-focused environment. The Senior Planner will play a pivotal role in shaping sustainable development strategies, delivering high-quality planning applications, and advising clients on complex land use issues. With a focus on site allocations, farm diversification, permitted development rights, leisure and tourism projects, and landed estate developments, you will contribute to transformative projects that balance environmental stewardship, community benefit, and commercial viability.
This is a unique opportunity to work on high-profile, varied portfolios while enjoying a flexible working model, with minimal office presence required—ideal for professionals seeking autonomy, impact, and work-life balance.
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Responsibilities
* Lead the preparation and submission of planning applications, including outline and detailed applications, for rural and estate-based developments.
* Conduct comprehensive site appraisals and feasibility studies, assessing viability and compliance with local and national planning policies.
* Advise clients on permitted development rights, change of use, and exemptions, particularly in agricultural and rural contexts.
* Develop and contribute to masterplans and development frameworks for leisure, tourism, and farm diversification projects.
* Engage effectively with local authorities, statutory consultees, and community stakeholders to secure planning approvals.
* Prepare and present planning reports, statements, and submissions, ensuring clarity, technical accuracy, and strategic alignment.
* Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including architects, landscape designers, and environmental consultants.
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of evolving planning legislation, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and local development plans.
* Mentor junior planners and contribute to business development through client engagement and proposal writing.
* Manage multiple projects efficiently, meeting deadlines and maintaining high standards of quality and client service.
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Requirements
Requirements:
* 2–3 years of proven experience in private sector planning, with a strong focus on rural development and estate projects.
* Demonstrable experience in site allocations, farm diversification, permitted development rights, leisure/tourism developments, and landed estate planning.
* Either a chartered member of the RTPI or on a pathway to becoming chartered.
* In-depth understanding of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), local development plans, and policy interpretation.
* Proven track record of successful planning application outcomes, including complex or contentious submissions.
* Strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills with the ability to communicate technical planning concepts clearly.
* Proficiency in planning software
* Ability to work autonomously with minimal supervision, demonstrating initiative and time management.
* Flexibility to work remotely with occasional office attendance near Leeds (typically a few days per month).
* Commitment to sustainable development and a collaborative, client-first approach.
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Contact for Confidential Enquiries
If you are interested in this opportunity or would like to speak with Rob Hanks directly for confidential discussions, please contact FutureGen Recruitment at:
Email:
Phone: (0) 20 7112 8420 or 07855 276123
All inquiries will be handled with discretion and confidentiality.