Principal Planner
Join to apply for the Principal Planner role at Essex County Council
About The Role
Principal Planner
Castle Point Borough Council
Temporary, Full Time
Up to £55.00 ph (umbrella)
Location: Castle Point
Closing Date: 2nd January 2026
Why Castle Point?
Castle Point Borough Council is a statutory body responsible for employing nearly 350 staff, delivering over 150 council services, and supporting the local community’s well‑being. The council aims to provide high quality, financially sustainable services while prioritising customer service, transparency, and local democracy. It is committed to modernising its performance and enabling the communities within its jurisdiction to thrive.
Our values: Trust, Respect, Improving and Learning, and Customer Focus
The Opportunity
This is a temporary 6‑month opportunity for an experienced Principal Planner with significant green belt experience. The role requires 1‑2 days on site working per week and involves guiding and shaping developments. You must hit the ground running, work with minimal supervision, manage your workload efficiently, and contribute to high‑quality decision making.
Accountabilities
* Lead on major planning applications
* Champion design excellence and compliance with national and local policies
* Drive innovation in dealing with major planning applications
* Build strong relationships with developers, councillors, and stakeholders
Experience You Will Bring
* Strong interpersonal skills for persuasion, influence, and relationship‑building
* Ability to interpret complex data and provide strategic solutions
* Excellent written and verbal communication, including report writing and presentations
* Self‑motivated with strong initiative and workload management
* Proficiency in IT systems, including Idox Uniform and Microsoft 365
* Advanced knowledge of planning legislation and development management practices
* Ability to manage projects and contribute to strategic planning
* Commitment to equality, diversity, and customer‑focused service
* Full UK driving licence and flexibility for site visits and evening meetings
Experience
* Significant experience within a local planning authority or a relevant private sector planning business
* Proven track record of handling a varied caseload of planning applications
* Experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship management
* Experience in developing and managing projects or programmes of work
Castle Point Borough Council is proud to be a disability confident Leader. We’re committed to interview all disabled applicants and veterans or care leavers who meet the minimum requirements of the role. If you require reasonable adjustments during the process, please speak to our recruiters.
Castle Point Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
For queries or additional information, please email louise.butler@essex.gov.uk
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Other
Industries: Government Administration
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