2 - 3 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Job Purpose
To support the delivery of an effective Development Management service by managing a varied caseload of planning applications, with a particular focus on major and complex development proposals. The Principal Planning Officer will provide professional planning advice, lead negotiations with applicants and stakeholders, contribute to planning policy and regeneration objectives, and support the Team Leader Major Development in achieving high-quality, customer-focused planning outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage a caseload of planning applications, with specific responsibility for major, complex, and high-profile development proposals.
* Provide pre-application advice to applicants, developers, and professional agents on major development schemes.
* Undertake site inspections, surveys, research, and assessments relating to development proposals.
* Lead consultations with stakeholders including statutory consultees, elected members, community groups, Town and Parish Councils, and members of the public.
* Lead negotiations with applicants and agents, including negotiations relating to Section 106 Agreements.
* Prepare detailed reports, recommendations, appeal statements, and committee reports based on planning legislation, policy, and professional judgement.
* Present planning applications and related matters at Planning and Regulatory Committee meetings.
* Lead Development Teams for major applications and Planning Performance Agreements, providing project feedback where required.
* Prepare planning appeal evidence and represent the Council at Public Inquiries, Informal Hearings, and Written Representation appeals.
* Appear as a witness for the Council in Magistrates’ and Crown Court proceedings where necessary.
* Provide advice and guidance to colleagues on complex planning and development management issues.
* Liaise with planning enforcement teams regarding investigations and enforcement cases.
* Work collaboratively with other Council departments regarding development opportunities on Council-owned and other land.
* Support the Team Leader Major Development and deputise where required.
* Assist in project management, staff supervision, mentoring, and the professional development of team members.
* Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and ensure high standards of customer service delivery
Requirements
* Degree in Town and Country Planning or a related subject.
* Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or eligibility for membership.
* Substantial recent experience in Development Management, including handling complex planning applications and appeals.
* Strong knowledge of current planning legislation, policy, and guidance relating to development management.
* Experience preparing and presenting committee reports and appeal evidence.
* Excellent analytical, report writing, negotiation, and communication skills.
* Experience leading negotiations relating to major developments and Section 106 Agreements.
* Ability to manage complex workloads and meet deadlines effectively.
* Strong stakeholder engagement and presentation skills.
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
* Experience supervising, mentoring, or supporting staff development is desirable.
* Knowledge of specialist planning software and strong ICT skills.
* Mobility across the Borough as required.
Additional Information
* Location: Loughborough, Leicestershire
* Hours per Week: 37
* Payment: Bi-Weekly Payments
* This role is Hybrid Working