Venesky-Brown's client, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, is currently looking to recruit a Planning Officer (& Major Projects). Comhairle nan Eilean Siar is the Planning Authority for the islands of the Outer Hebrides, an area renowned for its strong sense of community, environmental quality, beautiful scenery, outdoor opportunities, low crime rates, good educational opportunities, and a strong cultural scene.
By 2027, the Isle of Lewis is to be connected to the Grid via a 1.8GW radial interconnector cable, unlocking large-scale renewable energy development potential. This includes proposals for significant development of electricity infrastructure, classified as Development due to its status as part of the Grid. The role involves managing the consenting requirements for a programme of Major and/or EIA development projects.
The Planning Officer will provide professional planning services to support the Comhairle in fulfilling statutory planning duties. Working within the Development Management team, the focus will be on managing caseloads related to renewable energy developments, energy infrastructure, and housing.
Salary: £45,243 to £48,966/annum (including distant islands allowance). Benefits include excellent holidays and pension. The role is based in Stornoway.
Responsibilities:
1. Maintain knowledge of legislation, regulations, and emerging caselaw related to EIA and Development Management.
2. Assess applications including larger scale Local and Major Applications for Planning Permission, EIA Applications, Certificates of Lawfulness, and other planning notifications.
3. Handle statutory consultations under Marine Licensing, S36, and S37 of the Electricity Act.
4. Provide pre-application advice, interpret legislation, and advise on planning consent requirements.
5. Conduct site visits, identify planning issues, and negotiate with applicants, agents, and consultees.
6. Manage project plans and processing agreements for major developments.
7. Provide formal opinions and responses regarding EIA Regulations, Energy Consents, Marine Licences, etc.
8. Review Environmental Impact Assessment Reports, identify deficiencies, and recommend actions.
9. Prepare project briefs for external specialist services as needed.
10. Draft assessment reports, recommendations, conditions, and Heads of Terms for legal agreements.
11. Present planning applications to the Planning Applications Board/Comhairle.
12. Record post-decision processes and monitor development compliance.
13. Prepare appeal statements, present evidence at Public Inquiries, and defend decisions.
Essential Skills:
* Knowledge of current planning legislation, procedures, policies, and guidance.
* Understanding of the Scottish planning system and EIA processes.
* Strong investigative, analytical, and assessment skills.
* Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills.
* Proficiency in reading and interpreting spatial data and using MS Office, internet, and email.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
* Full or Associate Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
* Significant experience in Development Management.
* Current driving license.
* Willingness to undertake relevant training and attend evening/overnight meetings.
* Customer-focused attitude.
Desirable Skills:
* Understanding of development challenges in the Outer Hebrides.
* Graphical or drawing skills.
* Ability to speak, read, and write in Gaelic.
* Sensitivity to the local political environment.
* Experience with case and document management systems, including Uniform database.
* Experience in presenting to committees and preparing appeal statements.
If you would like to hear more about this opportunity, please get in touch.
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