Graduate Planner – Planning & Development - Closing date 20.07.2025
Salary from £25,302 to £27,600 pa - depending on skills and experience
Fixed Term Contract for 3 years – Full time – 37 hours per week
Location: Ashford, Kent
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Planning & Development department at Ashford Borough Council as a Graduate Planner on a 3-year contract.
You will be responsible for assisting in providing a high-quality, customer-focused Planning & Development service. Working flexibly as part of the department, you will rotate through the teams in the Planning & Development service to work on a wide range of tasks, including:
1. Delivering advice and decisions on planning applications,
2. Providing wider advice to stakeholders on planning-related issues, and
3. Assisting officers to prepare planning policies and guidance to promote high-quality development in the borough.
You will be allocated the essential car user allowance element of the lease car scheme whilst working within areas that require mobility around the borough, so a driving license and use of a vehicle are essential.
Who are we looking for?
* Someone with the ambition to start or progress their career in planning
* Good attention to detail
* Excellent organizational and communication skills
* Someone committed to personal development with a can-do attitude
Knowledge of the planning system, legislation, and procedures is desirable but not essential, as full training will be provided, including an opportunity to study for a Chartered Town Planner Apprenticeship.
This role is suitable for graduates from a wide range of subjects, especially those interested in the built environment, planning, sustainability, law, and local government.
Successful candidates will be expected to study for Level 7 Chartered Town Planner (Apprenticeship). The minimum entry requirement is a 2:2 degree or equivalent.
Applicants with a non-cognate degree and relevant work experience may be considered if they demonstrate suitable subject knowledge. Applicants must hold 5 GCSEs A-C including Maths and English, or equivalent (reformed GCSEs grade 4 or above).
Upon successful completion, post holders will gain a Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) fully accredited qualification and become Chartered Members of the RTPI (MRTPI).
About us:
Ashford is the largest authority in the “Garden of England”. It’s a beautiful place to live and work, with excellent transport links, heritage towns and villages, and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is close to the Channel Tunnel, the coast, and London is just 38 minutes away by train.
At Ashford Borough Council, we aim to build an exciting and beautiful place for residents, businesses, and visitors, supporting economic prosperity, cultural richness, and community opportunities.
For an informal discussion about this role, please contact Harriet Turner, Deputy Team Leader – Plan Making & Infrastructure, via harriet.turner@ashford.gov.uk or 01233 330241.
When applying, ensure you receive confirmation of your submitted application. For assistance with the application form or a full job description, email recruitment@ashford.gov.uk.
Interviews will be held on 31st July for a 1st September start date.
Hybrid Working: We offer flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance, maximizing personal development and collaboration.
Competitive remuneration package includes an excellent salary, pension scheme, generous annual leave with flexi-time, free life insurance, a supportive relocation package, and training opportunities.
Although discussions about devolution are ongoing, Kent and Medway are committed to delivering vital services. This is an exciting and stable time to join our organization.
Ashford Borough Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We welcome applications from the Armed Forces community.
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