An opportunity has arisen for the role of Planning Enforcement Officer on a fixed term basis (internal applicants may request a secondment).
The postholder will lead on complex and contentious enforcement cases with assistance from colleagues within the team. The successful candidate will contribute to legal proceedings and provide professional oversight within the team, helping to ensure the Council delivers a robust, proportionate and legally sound planning enforcement service.
You must have confidence in dealing with the public and be able to deal effectively with difficult situations. You will have the ability to communicate technical matters clearly and collaborate effectively with internal and external partners. You will be self-motivated, have excellent customer service skills and have a commitment to team working. You will be required to meet deadlines and make informed decisions when faced with conflicting demands.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead on the investigation and resolution of alleged breaches of planning control, including supporting on complex and high risk cases.
• Undertake site visits, evidence gathering and formal interviews under caution in accordance with PACE, CPIA and RIPA.
• Draft, serve and monitor enforcement notices, including Section 215 notices and breach of condition notices.
• Prepare reports and make recommendations on formal enforcement action, prosecutions and works in default.
• Represent the Council at court hearings, enforcement appeals and public inquiries.
• Ensure compliance with statutory duties, including heritage and conservation, biodiversity net gain, tree protection and sustainable development.
• Monitor compliance with planning permissions, conditions and legal notices.
• Provide professional advice to elected members, colleagues, developers and members of the public.
• Contribute to service performance targets, service improvement and the development of enforcement processes.
About You
This role is suited to an individual who:
• Is educated to degree level (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline.
• Has experience in planning enforcement and/or investigative or regulatory work.
• Has experience of managing complex cases and dealing with formal legal processes.
• Has sound knowledge of planning legislation and enforcement procedures.
• Is confident in applying PACE, CPIA and RIPA requirements.
• Has strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to manage conflict.
• Is able to prioritise a demanding workload and work autonomously while supporting others.
Working Environment
The role involves hybrid working and regular site visits, including lone working and potentially challenging situations. Appropriate training, equipment and support will be provided.
Why Apply?
This role offers:
• Exposure to senior level decision making and legal enforcement work
• Development of leadership, investigative and court based experience
• The opportunity to work on high profile and complex cases with real community impact
• Valuable experience to support future career progression
Closing Date: 22nd March 2026
Interview Date: 27th March 2026
Internal applicants apply for a secondment are encouraged to discuss their application with their line manager before applying.
Please see attached job description and employee specification which you should refer to when completing your application to demonstrate you meet the essential criteria for the role.