Job details
Salary £40,174 to £43,236 per annum (pay award pending) – up to £44,472 per annum for exceptional performance once in post. Contractual hours: 37. Basis: Full time. Region: South. Job category: Planning. Date posted: 01/06/2026.
Job description
We’re looking for a motivated and politically aware planning professional to join our Planning Policy, Infrastructure and Delivery Team as a Neighbourhood Plans Officer.
Working closely with town and parish councils, local communities, councillors, and senior officers, you’ll take the lead on supporting Neighbourhood Plans across the district—helping ensure they align with the Council’s own Local Plan and respond to the unique and sensitive character of the New Forest. Occasionally you may also support discreet tasks relating to the Local Plan where relevant to this role.
This is a 2‑year fixed‑term contract, advertised at 37 hours per week, but we welcome applications for reduced or flexible hours.
Why this role matters
Neighbourhood planning in the New Forest is both rewarding and challenging. You’ll be operating in a high‑profile political environment, where balancing national policy, local priorities, environmental protection, and strong public interest is essential.
* Internationally protected landscapes
* High levels of development pressure
* Complex stakeholder relationships
* Communities passionate about shaping the places where they live
Your ability to work confidently with elected Members, community groups, statutory bodies and planning professionals will be crucial in ensuring neighbourhood plans are robust, deliverable and locally supported.
About the role
* Lead the Council’s day‑to‑day engagement in neighbourhood planning.
* Advise and guide parish and town councils through every stage of neighbourhood plan preparation.
* Present to local communities and councillors on the neighbourhood planning process.
* Coordinate responses from internal services and external bodies.
* Support examinations.
* Coordinate referendums and adoption processes.
* Apply strong judgement in a politically sensitive context with high public visibility.
* Support the preparation of the local plan where appropriate.
About you
* A degree in a relevant built or natural environment subject (RTPI accredited or eligible preferred).
* Experience working with communities and a comprehensive understanding of the neighbourhood planning process.
* Strong communication skills, with confidence presenting in public and political settings.
* Demonstrable organisational skills, including drafting response schedules, managing statutory deadlines, and preparing submissions to examiners.
* The ability to balance differing viewpoints, manage complex issues, and work creatively under pressure.
* A genuine interest in planning policy and community‑led plan making.
What’s in it for you?
* £40,174 to £43,236 per annum (pay award pending) – up to £44,472 for exceptional performance once in post.
* 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays plus an additional 5 days for 5 years of continuous service.
* Local Government Pension Scheme and AVC provision.
* Hybrid Working.
* Wide range of employee discounts at high‑street retailers, including supermarkets, stores and restaurants.
* A Cycle to Work scheme which could save you around 40 percent on cycles and accessories.
* Employee Assistance Programme (free 24‑hour legal, financial and personal advice).
Closing date: 11pm on Monday 15th June 2026
Interview Date: week commencing 22nd June 2026
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