Job Title : Principal Planning Officer Client Location : North Somerset, BS23 1UJ Duration : 6 Months Job description Responsible to: Strategic Development Service Manager Key relationships/Functional links with: Staff at all levels in the organization’s, as well as members of the public, developers, statutory consultees and other public and private bodies. Main Purpose of Job: To handle a caseload of planning applications and pre-application enquiries for major and strategic developments and to defend the organization’s position at appeal where necessary. Main Responsibilities / Accountabilities: Process major planning applicants and make recommendations Prepare reports, including proofs of evidence in relation to a range of appeals, and present evidence at hearings, and public inquiries, and at court proceedings Give information and advice to businesses, the public and other stakeholders about legislative requirements and standards for compliance with planning legislation Valid driving licence and own transport, or be able to provide alternative, suitable method of travel is an essential condition for this role. Essential Criteria: Significant evidence of working with the most complex and challenging areas of Development Management. Academic qualifications in Town and Country planning or similar at Honours degree level or above, or in exceptional circumstances equivalent experience to give an in-depth level of knowledge necessary to undertake the most complex cases A comprehensive knowledge of legislation, policy, regulations and professional codes of practice for Development Management Ability to prepare & present information/evidence clearly and confidently at Public Inquiries and planning committee meetings. Ability to manage and organise own work and assist that of colleagues to meet agreed deadlines. General information: The post holder will be required to comply with organisation’s policies and procedures. This Job Description covers the main duties and responsibilities of the job and will be subject review and amendment, in consultation with the post holder, to meet the changing needs of the organisation. Other activities commensurate with this Job Description may from time to time be undertaken by the post holder. The role is based in North Somerset. However, working arrangements are flexible, with attendance at the office only necessary for key meetings, e.g. site visits, planning committee etc.