Make a real impact in your community – join Cheltenham Borough Council as a Principal Planning Officer!
Salary: £42,243 – £46,563 per annum
Come and work for an award-winning organisation!
Cheltenham Borough Council is a forward-thinking local authority, committed to shaping a thriving future for the town. We’re proud to be a multi-award-winning organisation that values innovation, sustainability, and collaboration.
We’re playing a central role in regeneration and economic growth across Cheltenham delivering new homes, enhancing employment opportunities, and supporting vibrant communities.
As an employer, we’re focused on creating a positive and inclusive environment where our people are supported to grow and thrive. We offer flexible working, generous leave, a strong pension scheme, and fantastic development opportunities. Together, we’re building a better Cheltenham.
Principal Planning Officer – The Role:
We’re looking for an experienced and motivated Principal Planning Officer to join our Planning team.
In this key role, you’ll lead on major planning proposals and regeneration projects across the borough, helping to shape the future of Cheltenham. You’ll also support a small team of Planning Officers and Senior Planning Officers, acting as a mentor, sounding board, and role model to help them grow in their careers.
You’ll work closely with the Head of Planning and Development Management Manager to drive service improvements, respond to legislative changes, and ensure we deliver the highest quality outcomes for our communities.
This is an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic, commercially minded team that’s delivering real, long-lasting impact.
Principal Planning Officer – Key Responsibilities:
* Manage a caseload of complex planning applications, pre-app enquiries, appeals and other related matters
* Support a small team of planning officers
* Lead on major and strategic planning proposals across the borough
* Work with internal and external stakeholders to deliver high-quality planning outcomes
* Prepare and present reports to Planning Committee and attend site visits and meetings
* Provide expert evidence at appeals, inquiries, and hearings where required
* Support service development by contributing to improvements and innovation within the Planning team
Principal Planning Officer – You’ll Need:
* A degree in Town and Country Planning (or a related subject)
* Chartered membership of (or eligibility for) the RTPI
* At least 5 years’ experience in development management, including dealing with complex and major applications
* Experience supporting or mentoring others in a professional setting
* Strong knowledge of planning law, Section 106 agreements, and the Community Infrastructure Levy
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present reports and explain complex issues clearly
* Strong IT, organisational, and problem-solving skills
* A collaborative, proactive approach and a commitment to excellent service delivery
Desirable:
* Experience giving evidence at Public Inquiries
* Experience in urban design, placemaking or enforcement and compliance
Principal Planning Officer – Benefits:
* Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
* 26 days’ holiday rising to 31 days after 5 years
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
* A comprehensive programme of learning and development
* Two days paid volunteering leave
* Enhanced maternity and paternity schemes
* Employee counselling service
* Free eye tests and a contribution towards glasses (for some roles)
* Cycle to work scheme
* Low-cost town centre parking (depending on role location)
* A strong commitment to employee wellbeing
Application Process:
If you’re ready to play a leading role in shaping Cheltenham’s future, apply now by clicking on the apply button to become our next Principal Planning Officer!
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