Job Purpose
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior Planning Officer to join the Development Management team within Climate & Place, Economy, Employment and Planning. The role involves managing a varied and complex caseload of planning applications, including major development schemes, while supporting Planning Officers and representing the Local Planning Authority at Committee and appeals.
Key Responsibilities
* Process and determine planning applications, including major residential, economic, and inward investment schemes.
* Undertake negotiations with developers, agents, and stakeholders to balance material considerations, planning policy, and third-party comments.
* Draft high-quality reports for Planning Committee and delegated decisions.
* Provide professional support and guidance to Planning Officers and Technicians, including site inspections, report drafting, and negotiations.
* Attend and present cases at Planning Committee meetings.
* Represent the Council at hearings, inquiries, and appeals, including acting as an expert witness.
* Deliver advice to members of the public, developers, and elected Members on planning and enforcement matters.
* Undertake monitoring and compliance functions, including investigating and resolving breaches of planning control.
* Support policy development by testing and translating policies into practical application.
Person Specification
Qualifications & Knowledge
* Degree in Town Planning or related subject (Essential).
* Eligible for membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) (Essential).
* Strong knowledge of planning law, enforcement, case law, and relevant legislation (Essential).
Skills & Abilities
* Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills (Essential).
* Ability to manage competing caseloads under strict deadlines (Essential).
* Strong analytical and report-writing skills (Essential).
* Ability to represent the Council at appeals and inquiries (Desirable).
* Proficiency in IT systems, data input, and report preparation (Essential).
Experience
* Significant experience in Development Management at Senior level (Essential).
* Experience supporting team development and CPD (Essential).
* Experience defending cases at hearings/inquiries (Desirable).
Pre-Employment Requirements
* Proof of Right to Work in the UK (valid passport or photo ID).
* National Insurance Number.
* Professional qualification certificates (e.g., Town Planning degree, RTPI membership or eligibility).
Working Arrangements
* Full-time, 37 hours per week.
* Current contract end date: 31/12/2025.
* Hybrid: Minimum 1 day a week or 2 days per fortnight on-site. Attendance required for Committee meetings and site visits.
How to Apply
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Reference ID: OR13380
Job Types: Full-time, Temporary, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 26 weeks
Pay: £36.25 per hour
Expected hours: 37 per week