Introduction
Herefordshire Council is a large unitary authority with the planning service at the heart of its spatial priorities. There are significant investments in systems and processes, creating an opportunity to join the team as part of ambitious growth goals.
About The Role
Economy and Environment
Job Title: Planning Policy Officer
Hours: 37
Salary: HC7 £32,061 - £36,363 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: 4 May 2026
Interview date: 11 May 2026
We are looking for an enthusiastic and skilled Planning Officer to join the Strategic & Neighbourhood Planning team. You will help create vibrant places to live and work while addressing climate change and protecting nature. You will support the Strategic and Neighbourhood Planning Manager in delivering spatial policy and developing the local plan under the new plan-making system. The team leads on future growth and sustainable development and supports neighbourhood planning and policy documents for a unitary area serving a population of 191,000.
What will you be doing?
As Planning Policy Officer, you will help keep policy documents up to date, conduct research, monitor trends, and gather statistics to support the Planning Service and policy framework.
* Contribute to the development of strategic planning documents, spatial strategies (including infrastructure), policy guidance, evidence base work and plan monitoring
* Engage with internal and external stakeholders, neighbouring authorities, Elected Members and communities to ensure inclusive placemaking
* Analyse complex planning issues and provide expert advice to inform policy and decision-making
* Support neighbourhood planning groups through all stages of plan-making and grassroots planning activities
* Manage planning policy enquiries and support a wide range of planning activities
* Keep informed about UK Government policies, strategic planning, and sub-regional planning matters
About You
You will be a motivated and collaborative planning professional with the ability to analyse, interpret and present evidence and information clearly to a variety of audiences. You will flexibly support the Planning Service’s goals and contribute to the council’s broader objectives. A background in policy development or a related field and a commitment to professional excellence are desirable.
* A degree in Town Planning or a related discipline
* Chartered membership of the RTPI (or working towards it) or equivalent
* Experience in development planning or strategic planning policy (desirable)
* Collaborative mindset and ability to work across disciplines including infrastructure, conservation and heritage, and the environment
* Commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering positive outcomes for people and places
* Effective communication skills and ability to develop strong working relationships, with time management and organizational skills
* Ability to work on multiple work streams with initiative and within a team, often to tight deadlines
We Offer
A competitive salary, holiday entitlement, and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and staff benefits, including:
* Salary range of £32,061 - £36,363
* Enrolment in the LGPS
* Career progression with clear pathways
* Annual leave: 31 days (pro rata) plus bank holidays; option to purchase an additional 10 days per annum
* Flexible working: potential for job-sharing, part-time hours and agile working
* Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support and counselling
* Payment of professional membership fees (where applicable)
* Perks: access to a range of retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits
Why Choose Us
Herefordshire Council is committed to diversity, inclusion and creating an empowering workplace. We value and support our employees and offer opportunities to develop professional and supervisory skills.
Don’t meet all parts of the job description? We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and strive to reflect the communities we serve.
How To Apply
To apply, upload an up‑to‑date CV and complete the application form demonstrating your experience, skills and abilities. For more information or to arrange an informal discussion, contact Siobhan Riddle, Strategic & Neighbourhood Planning Manager, at 01432 260142.
Please reference the job description and person specification in your submission. If shortlisted, Hoople Resourcing will contact you by email to arrange interview details. Check your spam/junk folder as well.
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