Job Description
5-6 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• Brentwood Borough Council is seeking an experienced Senior Policy Planner (Strategic Planning Consultant) to provide expert support across a range of complex and high-profile planning projects.
• This role is central to progressing the Council’s strategic planning objectives, including involvement in major infrastructure schemes such as the Norwich to Tilbury and Lower Thames Crossing Development Consent Orders (DCOs), and the delivery of key planning policies relating to Gypsy and Traveller provision, Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), and Section 106 (S106) matters.
• The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of planning policy, infrastructure planning, and development management processes, and will be confident representing the Council in hearings, examinations, and engagement with senior officers and elected members.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Lead the Council’s participation in the Norwich to Tilbury DCO Examination in Public, representing the authority at hearings and preparing written submissions.
• Coordinate and manage the Council’s response to the Lower Thames Crossing DCO, including reviewing key documents and reporting to senior officers.
• Support the development of Gypsy and Traveller planning policy, ensuring alignment with legal frameworks and local needs.
• Contribute to the management and governance of CIL and S106 developer contributions, assisting in the preparation of an Infrastructure Investment Plan.
• Provide clear and accurate planning policy advice to senior officers, elected members, and external stakeholders.
• Prepare and present technical reports, policy documents, and consultation responses to support evidence-based decision-making.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams, statutory bodies, and external consultants to ensure effective coordination of strategic planning activities.
• Maintain awareness of national planning policy changes and legislative developments affecting the Council’s planning functions.
Skills/Experience:
• Proven experience working within a local authority planning policy team or similar environment.
• In-depth knowledge of planning legislation, national policy, and DCO processes.
• Experience representing a local authority or organisation at public examinations or hearings.
• Strong understanding of CIL, S106 agreements, and infrastructure planning.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, often to tight deadlines.
• High level of professional integrity and ability to provide clear, evidence-based advice.
Additional Information:
• Degree in Town Planning, Urban Planning, or related discipline (essential).
• Chartered Membership of the RTPI or working towards it (desirable).
• Location: Brentwood, Essex (hybrid working may be considered).
• Hours: 37 hours per week (Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 17:30).
Requirements
• Proven experience working within a local authority planning policy team or similar environment. • In-depth knowledge of planning legislation, national policy, and DCO processes. • Experience representing a local authority or organisation at public examinations or hearings. • Strong understanding of CIL, S106 agreements, and infrastructure planning. • Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills. • Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, often to tight deadlines. • High level of professional integrity and ability to provide clear, evidence-based advice.