Interim Principal Planner - Strategic Major Application Lead Essex | Local Authority | Interim | Principal Planning Officer My client is seeking an experienced Interim Principal Planner to take a lead role in progressing a large‑scale, strategic planning application within the Local Authority. This is a high‑impact interim appointment suited to a confident, technically strong planner capable of managing a major development proposal from initial handling through to decision. The Role: The successful candidate will act as the lead professional officer for a single, high‑profile strategic proposal. The work will involve coordinating specialist inputs, managing the overall programme, shaping the authority’s position, and ensuring all required assessments, negotiations and reporting are completed to a high standard. Key responsibilities will include, Acting as lead officer on a major outline planning application of significant scale and complexity Providing clear, robust planning advice throughout the assessment and reporting stages Managing negotiations with applicants and external advisors across technical, environmental and policy matters Preparing high‑quality officer reports, briefings and recommendations for senior officers and elected Members Presenting confidently at Planning Committee where required Operating on a hybrid basis, with office presence adjusted to the needs of the project The Ideal Candidate: This role will suit an experienced interim Town Planner with a strong strategic planning background and a proven track record of taking responsibility for major or complex development proposals. Candidates are likely to have: Extensive experience assessing and progressing major planning applications at Principal Planner or Major Projects level A strong understanding of relevant policy frameworks, including those relating to strategic sites, environmental considerations and large‑scale development Robust Committee‑facing skills and confidence advising senior officers and Members Experience managing multidisciplinary inputs and navigating politically sensitive environments The ability to work independently, meet deadlines and communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders Working Arrangements / Terms: Initial 6‑month contract Outside IR35 Up to £500 per day (dependent on experience) Hybrid working, with in‑person attendance determined by project demands Please apply promptly, applications are being reviewed as they are received and interviews may be scheduled at short notice. Apply via this advert, or contact Ollie Jarvis for a confidential discussion directly on 07824 862 893, or via email to ollie.jarvis@hays.com.