Senior Policy Planner
Job description
We are currently seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Policy Planner to join the Planning Policy (Local Development Plan) Team within the Environment & Regeneration Directorate.
This is a key professional role, leading on the development, monitoring and review of the Local Development Plan (LDP) and associated evidence base. You will play a central part in shaping planning policy that supports sustainable development, economic growth and placemaking across Neath Port Talbot.
As a Senior Policy Planner, you will undertake complex policy work, research and stakeholder engagement, providing expert planning advice to colleagues, elected Members, partners and the public, and representing the authority at Examinations in Public and planning appeals.
Your daily routine will include:
1. Preparing, monitoring and reviewing the Local Development Plan
2. Developing non‑statutory planning policy, supplementary planning guidance and supporting documents
3. Maintaining and updating the LDP evidence base, including research, surveys, data analysis and consultation
4. Preparing and presenting evidence at Examinations in Public and planning appeals
5. Providing expert planning policy advice to officers, Members, partners and the public
6. Leading on specific topic areas within planning policy under the guidance of the Team Leader
You will also contribute to regional and sub‑regional planning initiatives and deputise for the Planning Policy Team Leader when required.
About you:
Do you have:
7. Significant experience in Planning Policy, including evidence‑based strategy and policy development
8. Experience of delivering public engagement and consultation programmes
9. A strong understanding of planning legislation, national and regional policy
10. Experience of providing evidence at Examinations in Public and planning appeals
11. The ability to manage complex work programmes, meet deadlines and work both independently and collaboratively
You will hold:
12. A planning qualification to RTPI standard, or equivalent Planning Policy experience
About us:
We believe in rewarding and recognising our colleagues’ efforts and achievements. We also believe that there’s life at work and life outside of work. We want everyone to be healthy and happy and have the financial resources and support they need.
Choose to work for us and you’ll be rewarded with a range of attractive benefits and support to help you live your best life.
13. Hybrid working (in some roles) and flexible working schemes to improve your work life balance
14. Benefit from a competitive employee package with a remarkable 22.4% employer pension contribution
15. Enjoy a holiday entitlement of 25 days, increasing to 32 days after 5 years’ service (not forgetting the additional 8 bank holidays too)
16. Access discounted gym membership with Celtic Leisure
17. Utilise the cycle to work scheme with up to 40% off bikes and cycling equipment
18. Purchase a new car through Tusker salary sacrifice scheme
19. Enjoy exclusive discounts at local and national retailers with the Smart Spend app through our staff wellbeing group.
If you would like to start a rewarding career with a company that values and invests in its employees and you have the necessary experience and qualifications, this could be your dream job and we would love to hear from you.
(This role operates on a hybrid basis, with a minimum of 2 days per week in the office.)
For an informal discussion