Description Salary: £37,815 - £43,083 per annum Grade: E Hours: 37hrs per week About Us: Thurrock Council is on an exciting journey to enhance our planning services, and we are making significant strides. Following a comprehensive review by the Planning Advisory Service, we have implemented numerous improvements that have been recognised as going "above and beyond" the initial recommendations. We are committed to continuing this progress and are looking for passionate individuals to join our team and contribute to our mission. About the Role Thurrock Council’s Planning Service plays a crucial role in ensuring sustainable growth and maintaining the character of our borough. As a Planning Enforcement Officer, you will investigate and assess potential breaches of planning control and recommend appropriate actions. You will be responsible for issuing notices, taking enforcement action where needed, and ensuring that planning enforcement services are provided to the highest standards in line with adopted procedures. This role requires a proactive approach to planning enforcement and strong customer service focus. Key Responsibilities Investigation and Enforcement: Investigate all complaints and potential breaches of planning control and take appropriate action according to agreed policies and service standards. Site Visits and Record Keeping: Take contemporaneous notes during site visits, ensuring all information is recorded accurately and updated in the Council’s records within agreed timescales. Issuing Notices: Draft and serve formal enforcement notices in consultation with senior officers when breaches of planning control are identified. Appeals and Court Proceedings: Prepare draft statements and proofs of evidence for appeals against enforcement notices, and attend formal hearings and public inquiries. Represent the Council as a witness in Magistrates Court and Crown Court, as required. Legislation and Policy Awareness: Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation, government guidance, planning policies, case law, and best practice related to planning and enforcement matters. Collaborative Working: Liaise with other Council departments, the Police, and statutory bodies to ensure effective action is taken to resolve breaches of planning control. Report Preparation: Draft letters, notices, and reports on enforcement cases, including Committee reports for senior officers. Council Meetings: Attend meetings, including Council meetings, as required by senior officers, and ensure that actions arising from these discussions are carried out in a timely manner. High Court Injunctions: Assist with investigations into breaches requiring High Court Injunctions and follow through with actions to clear occupiers after the injunction is obtained. Continuous Improvement: Contribute to the Council’s commitment to continuous improvement by participating in self-assessment processes and development planning. Training and Development: Participate in the 1-2-1 performance review process and undertake any training or development as required to support your role. Additional Duties: Undertake other duties as reasonably required to support the operational needs of the service area and the Council, including business continuity and during civil emergencies. Skills and Experience Required Knowledge of planning enforcement legislation, policies, and procedures. Experience in investigating planning breaches, issuing notices, and preparing reports. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to present complex enforcement matters clearly. Ability to manage a caseload efficiently and meet deadlines. Understanding of legal processes related to planning enforcement, including court hearings and High Court Injunctions. Ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, and the public. Strong organisational skills and attention to detail. Why Join Thurrock Council? The Council Planning function is making fantastic progress. We have implemented tangible measures for real improvements. Join us in building a better future for Thurrock. Help us continue to make a difference. As a Planning Enforcement Officer at Thurrock Council, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the borough’s planning landscape by ensuring compliance with planning regulations. What We Offer: A dynamic and supportive work environment. Professional growth opportunities. The chance to make a tangible impact on the community. Recognition and appreciation for your contributions. Our Culture: At Thurrock Council, we believe in fostering a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and collaboration. We value diversity and strive to create an environment where every team member feels empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Our commitment to continuous improvement and excellence drives us to support each other and celebrate our successes together. Advert Closing Date; Redeployment Only: 15th May 2025 Internal & External: 1st June 2025 Interview Date: TBC For further information, please contact Ashley Baldwin at ashley.baldwin@thurrock.gov.uk. To view the Job Profile and Person Specification, please follow the link below: Job Profile - Planning Enforcement Officer.pdf