Established planning practice, varied project pipeline, strong career development and hybrid working
Job Summary
Senior Planner Job Bedford. This is an opportunity to join a planning-led consultancy delivering multidisciplinary services across the UK development sector. Based in Bedford, this Planning role offers exposure to a broad mix of projects including residential developments, affordable housing schemes, local plan promotion and complex change of use proposals. You will work within a collaborative team environment while contributing to projects across both private and public sectors. The role combines project delivery, client engagement and stakeholder coordination, with increasing responsibility depending on experience. This Senior Planner Job Bedford offers the chance to influence planning outcomes across a diverse portfolio while building technical expertise and professional confidence. The position supports hybrid working and encourages both independent working and in-office collaboration.
About the Company
This established planning and development consultancy operates across multiple UK offices, delivering tailored advice across the built environment. The organisation provides integrated services spanning planning, urban design, architecture, environmental services and infrastructure. Teams work collaboratively to deliver commercially focused outcomes for clients across residential, mixed-use and strategic land sectors. The company fosters a supportive and professional environment, with a strong emphasis on knowledge sharing and continuous development. Employees benefit from structured mentoring, exposure to multidisciplinary expertise and the opportunity to contribute to projects of varying scale and complexity. The working culture promotes inclusivity, professional growth and long-term career progression within a stable and expanding organisation.
Role & Responsibilities
1. Provide clear and commercially focused planning advice to clients across residential and mixed-use development projects
2. Prepare detailed planning reports, applications and supporting documentation to a high professional standard
3. Manage and coordinate external consultants to ensure timely and effective project delivery outcomes
4. Build and maintain strong client relationships through regular communication and professional engagement
5. Engage proactively with local planning authorities and key stakeholders throughout the planning process
6. Represent client interests during negotiations, submissions and planning discussions to achieve successful outcomes
7. Support and lead smaller projects while contributing to larger strategic developments within the wider team
8. Collaborate with internal multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated planning and development solutions
Skills & Experience Required
9. Degree in Town Planning or related discipline with RTPI accreditation or working towards chartered status
10. Minimum three years professional planning experience within either private consultancy or local authority environment
11. Strong understanding of the UK planning system and experience across a range of planning applications and appeals
12. Excellent written communication skills with the ability to produce clear and accurate technical reports
13. Confident interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with clients and stakeholders effectively
14. Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining high standards of delivery
15. Experience working with multidisciplinary teams including urban design, environmental and infrastructure specialists
16. Proactive and motivated approach with a commitment to continuous professional development and learning
Salary & Benefits
17. Competitive salary offered depending on experience
18. Private healthcare package supporting employee wellbeing and access to medical services
19. Company pension scheme with salary sacrifice options to support long term financial planning
20. Life insurance provision offering additional financial security for employees and their families
21. Cycle to work scheme encouraging sustainable commuting and healthier lifestyle choices
22. Financial support for professional subscriptions and continued professional development activities
23. Enhanced family policies and wellbeing initiatives supporting work life balance and inclusion
Who Is This Role Ideal For?
This role is suited to a qualified planner seeking to progress within a supportive and technically strong environment. It will appeal to individuals who enjoy working across a variety of project types and want to develop both technical and client-facing skills. Candidates who are confident managing their own workload while contributing to wider team objectives will perform well. This Senior Planner Job Bedford is ideal for those looking to step into greater responsibility, including leading smaller projects and mentoring junior staff over time. It also suits professionals motivated by long-term career development, exposure to multidisciplinary collaboration and the opportunity to shape planning outcomes within a growing regional market.
About Hunter Dunning
Hunter Dunning is a specialist property and built environment recruitment consultancy established in 2004, focused on quality and long-term partnerships in the UK and Ireland property and construction market. We specialise in full lifecycle property recruitment, covering architecture, interior design, surveying, land and planning, fire safety and wider construction roles. We offer informed and confidential discussions for both clients and candidates and welcome conversations about this opportunity and your wider career plans within the built environment.