Local Government Reorganisation From April 2027, Surrey Heath Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey unitary council, as part of a major local government reorganisation across Surrey. This change will see the current twelve councils replaced by two new authorities: East Surrey and West Surrey. West Surrey will cover the areas currently served by Guildford, Waverley, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath and Woking. Joining us now means becoming part of an organisation where collaboration thrives and where your contribution will directly influence one of the most significant local government transformations in decades. You’ll gain valuable experience, play an active role in shaping the future of public services across West Surrey, and work within a team committed to professionalism and delivering outstanding outcomes for our communities. Together, we will ensure a smooth transition and continue to deliver exceptional services for residents both now and into the future. When the new councils are created in April 2027, most staff will transfer to the new council on their current terms and conditions. Being part of a larger organisation may offer additional opportunities for career development and variety. The Role We are looking to recruit to a Senior / Principal Planning Policy Officer post, potentially as a career graded role, within the Planning Policy and Conservation Team. You will be joining a small, busy and friendly team responsible for the preparation of a new Local Plan and associated planning policy tasks. Now is a good time to join the authority as we embark on the production of a new local plan under the new plan-making system. The role provides the opportunity to develop experience across all aspects of Planning Policy in a Borough that contains both urban and rural areas, including areas of Metropolitan Green Belt. You must be an enthusiastic and proactive town planner with experience in local plan-making and Planning Policy. You will have excellent and effective written and verbal communication skills and will be happy to take the initiative in managing and driving forward projects. You will be prepared to take responsibility for leading on key topics and will play a key role in the development and delivery of the Local Plan Review 2044. For this role a degree or MSc in Town and Country Planning/Urban Planning, or equivalent is essential.