Principal planning officer – development management

Principal Planning Officer – Development Management (Major Applications/PPA)

South East England | Remote (with site visits) | 6-Month Rolling Contract | Inside IR35

We are currently supporting a Local Authority in the South East of England seeking an experienced Principal Planning Officer to provide specialist support within their Development Management function, with a particular focus on strategic major applications and Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs).

This role requires an individual who can hit the ground running, confidently managing a complex caseload of large-scale applications while operating within a fast-paced local authority environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on the assessment and determination of major planning applications, including complex and strategic schemes

• Manage multiple major applications concurrently, ensuring delivery within statutory timeframes and PPA milestones

• Undertake site inspections and provide professional planning advice informed by site context

• Prepare and present high-quality officer reports, recommendations, and planning justifications

• Engage with key stakeholders including developers, consultants, elected members, and statutory consultees

• Support and advise on Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs), ensuring effective programme management and delivery

• Contribute to appeals, committees, and hearings where required

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum 7+ years’ experience within Development Management

• Proven track record of managing large-scale major planning applications within a Local Authority setting

• Strong working knowledge of UK planning legislation, policy frameworks, and decision-making processes

• Experience operating within PPA frameworks and managing complex stakeholder relationships

• Ability to manage a high-volume, complex caseload autonomously

• RTPI accredited (or working towards) – desirable

Working Arrangements

• £55–£62 per hour (Inside IR35)

• 6-month rolling contract

• Predominantly remote working, with occasional site visits as required

• Immediate start available