Principal Planning Policy Officer
Local Authority | South West London
A well-established local authority based in South West London is seeking an experienced Principal Planning Policy Officer to support the delivery of key planning policy work within a busy Strategic Planning and Infrastructure function.
This is a senior, high-impact role within a multidisciplinary planning service covering Planning Policy, Development Management and Infrastructure, with a strong focus on Local Plan delivery, policy development and stakeholder engagement.
Assignment Details
Contract Length: 9 months (ongoing assignment)
Pay Rate: £55 per hour (Umbrella) - 36 hours per week
Working Pattern: Hybrid - 1 to 2 days per week in the office, remainder remote
Office Location: Town-centre offices in South West London (High Street location)
Closing Date: 20/02/2026 at 17:00
The Role
Reporting to a senior planning lead, the Principal Planning Policy Officer will be responsible for leading and delivering complex planning policy projects and workstreams, supporting the preparation, review and monitoring of the Local Plan and associated planning policy documents.
The role requires close collaboration with internal services, elected members, external partners and local communities to ensure policy objectives align with corporate priorities and national planning guidance.
Key Responsibilities
Lead on the preparation, review and delivery of planning policy documents, including Local Plan workstreams
Manage and deliver complex policy projects and evidence base work
Contribute to policy development, planning briefs, topic papers and supplementary guidance
Provide high-level professional planning advice on policy implications of development proposals
Support public consultation and engagement exercises
Represent the service at meetings, consultations and stakeholder forums
Mentor and support junior planning officers where required
Contribute to service planning, performance targets and continuous improvement initiatives
Skills, Knowledge & Experience
Essential:
Significant experience working within a local authority, council or housing association environment only
Proven experience in Planning Policy at Senior or Principal level
Strong knowledge of the UK planning system, policy preparation and Local Plan processes
Ability to manage complex workstreams and competing deadlines
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
Eligible for or holding RTPI membership
Desirable:
Experience supporting or participating in Examinations in Public
Experience managing or mentoring other planning officers
?? Apply early to avoid disappointment. Shortlisting may take place prior to the closing date.
Linsco is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.
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