Job Description
3 months contract with local authority
The Senior Planning Enforcement Officer at Somerset Council is a pivotal role within the Development Management directorate, tasked with managing and prioritizing enforcement and compliance activities. This position ensures adherence to planning regulations and addresses complex breaches of planning control across Somerset. Key responsibilities include investigating complaints, conducting site visits, negotiating resolutions, and executing enforcement actions against unauthorized developments. The officer collaborates with various departments, stakeholders, and the public to provide planning guidance and ensure alignment with local and national policies. Additionally, the role involves preparing detailed reports, witness statements, and representing the council in appeals and court proceedings. The officer also mentors junior staff and contributes to the enhancement of the council’s planning enforcement processes.
Responsibilities
* Investigate complaints regarding breaches of planning control.
* Conduct site visits to assess compliance with planning permissions.
* Prepare and serve enforcement notices and other legal documents.
* Provide advice and guidance to the public, developers, and other stakeholders on planning enforcement matters.
* Maintain accurate records of enforcement actions and investigations.
* Prepare detailed reports and recommendations for planning committees.
* Represent the council at planning appeals, public inquiries, and court proceedings.
* Collaborate with other departments and external agencies to resolve planning issues.
* Monitor development sites to ensure compliance with planning conditions.
* Mentor and support junior planning enforcement staff.
* Contribute to the development and implementation of planning enforcement policies and procedures.
* Ensure that all enforcement actions comply with relevant legislation and council policies.
Requirements
Requirements:
Knowledge
* Comprehensive understanding of planning legislation and enforcement procedures.
* Knowledge of local and national planning policies.
* Familiarity with the Town and Country Planning Act.
* Understanding of legal processes related to planning enforcement.
* Knowledge of data protection and confidentiality requirements.
* Awareness of environmental and sustainability issues related to planning.
Experience
* Proven experience in planning enforcement or a related field.
* Experience in conducting site visits and inspections.
* Experience in preparing and serving enforcement notices.
* Experience in preparing reports and presenting at planning committees.
* Experience in representing an organization at appeals and court proceedings.
* Experience with the Proceeds of Crime Act.
* Experience in mentoring or supervising junior staff.
Qualifications
* Training in legal aspects of planning enforcement.
Requirements
Requirements: Fully trained and qualified building surveyor Based in the North Yorkshire Area