Norwich City Council: Conservation and Design Officer
Posted on 29/04/2026 by IHBC
£36,363 – £39,152 (Grade 6)
Full Time (37 hrs per week)
Fixed Term 1 year – Maternity Cover
Directorate/Team: Planning & Regulatory Services / Building Conservation & Urban Design
Location: Norwich City Hall, Norwich and hybrid.
About Us
Norwich is considered to be one of the most complete Medieval Cities in the United Kingdom, it has a wealth of fine buildings that represent a millennium of architectural achievement. It’s historic buildings frame some of the most interesting streets, squares and parks in the country. Having the opportunity to be one of its custodians represents a unique and rewarding responsibility.
You can join our specialist team of buildings conservation and urban design officers who are passionate about creating and conserving high quality buildings and spaces. Your main roles will be focused on conserving, and where possible, enhancing the historic built environment of Norwich as well as shaping the design of development projects that affect heritage assets in the City, this would be achieved through sound negotiation and good advice.
Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities
* To provide building conservation and urban design expertise to conserve and enhance the quality of the built environment through development management, capital improvement projects, the development of planning policy, investigation and enforcement against breaches of planning control and saving heritage at risk.
* Acting as a development management case officer for listed building consent applications, including dealing with pre-application negotiations, determining applications under delegated powers, writing and presenting reports for committee, discharging planning conditions and managing planning performance agreements.
* Preparing evidence and being the Council’s expert witness in connection with planning appeals whether dealt with by written representation or at
* Investigating and taking enforcement action against breaches of planning control in relation to listed buildings and conservation areas.
* Protecting heritage assets at risk through development management, enforcement and conservation projects.
* Undertake site inspections in all weather conditions, including negotiating steps, ladders and rough terrain.
* Lead on work priorities set by the Conservation and Design Team
What You Will Need
* Degree level qualification or higher in building
* Full, affiliate or supporter membership of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC).
* Excellent knowledge and experience of current conservation legislation, policy and best practice.
* Effective communication skills, including writing detailed comments on planning applications relating to built heritage.
Right To Work
Applicants must have existing Right to Work in the UK, as visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Interview Format
All interviews for this position will be held face to face, as we believe this offers the best experience for candidate and panel members. (Please note: If offered an interview you may be required to complete a short test).
To apply and view the full job description and person specification, please visit our website: Conservation & Design Officer – Recruitment | Norwich City Council
Applications will close at midnight on Friday 22nd May 2026.
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