3 Month Contract with A Local Authority

To lead on and manage a range of complex planning applications, appeals, and planning policy matters, ensuring high-quality development that aligns with local, regional, and national planning policies. The Senior Planning Officer also supports junior team members and contributes to service improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and assess a caseload of complex and major planning applications, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.
  
• Provide professional planning advice to applicants, agents, councillors, and the public.
  
• Prepare and present reports and recommendations to Planning Committees, Cabinet Members, and other stakeholders.
  
• Lead on appeals, including written representations, hearings, and public inquiries; prepare statements of case and act as expert witness where required.
  
• Contribute to the preparation and review of local plans, policies, and other planning documents.
  
• Undertake site visits, assess proposals, and identify relevant planning constraints and opportunities.
  
• Engage in pre-application discussions, offering clear and consistent planning guidance.
  
• Monitor planning conditions, obligations (S106/CIL), and enforcement matters where required.
  
• Liaise with statutory consultees, legal advisors, and internal departments (e.g. highways, environmental health).
  
• Mentor junior planning officers and assist in their professional development.
  
• Support continuous improvement of planning services, including through digital innovation and customer engagement.
  

Requirements

• Degree in Town Planning or related discipline.
  
• Membership of the RTPI (or eligible for membership).
  
• Proven experience in development management, spatial planning, or related areas.
  
• Strong understanding of planning legislation, policies, and procedures.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  
• Ability to manage a complex and varied caseload with minimal supervision.
  
• Strong report-writing, negotiation, and analytical skills.
  

• Experience of attending and presenting at committees and public meetings.