Overview
Senior Planning Officer - Somerset Council
Location: The Crescent, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4DY
Rate: £280 per day
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Contract Length: 6 months
Start Date: Immediate Start Available
What You'll Be Doing
* Lead and manage a diverse caseload of planning applications, including complex minor and major developments
* Negotiate with developers, agents, and legal teams to secure high-quality outcomes aligned with local and national policy
* Provide pre-application advice on both principle and detailed development proposals
* Draft committee reports and present at Planning Committee as required
* Represent the Council as an expert witness at appeals, public inquiries, and hearings
* Guide and support Planning Officers and Technicians with complex legislative or procedural issues
* Collaborate with stakeholders, internal departments, and external agencies to ensure planning decisions are well-informed and compliant
* Contribute to the preparation and testing of policies for the new Somerset-wide Local Plan
What We're Looking For
We\'re seeking a confident, knowledgeable planning professional who can work independently, manage competing priorities, and influence outcomes through informed judgement and negotiation.
Essential:
* Degree in Town Planning or a related field
* Eligible for or full membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)
* Extensive experience in development management and handling complex or major applications
* Sound understanding of planning law, policy, enforcement, and relevant case law
* Ability to interpret legislation and lead on technical planning matters
* Experience preparing and presenting planning reports, legal agreements (e.g. S106), and appeal statements
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to represent the council in public forums
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines
Why Join Somerset Council?
* Work on some of the most complex and meaningful developments in the region
* Be part of a council committed to sustainable growth, housing, and community wellbeing
* Influence the future of planning in Somerset, contributing directly to the emerging unified Local Plan
* Supportive team environment with access to planning specialists, legal advisors, and senior leaders
* Immediate start available - hit the ground running in a role that makes a difference from day one
* Flexible working arrangements and full access to IT systems and tools
Ready to Step Into a Key Role?
This is more than a job — it\'s an opportunity to deliver planning outcomes that matter. If you\'re ready to bring your expertise to a council that values proactive, solution-focused professionals, we\'d love to hear from you.
Apply today and start making an impact immediately
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