Location: Hybrid (approx. 1 day per week office-based + site visits across the county)
Contract: 12-month maternity cover
Hours: 37 hours per week (Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm)
Pay Rate: £42.00 per hour
About the Role
An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Planning Officer to join our client on a 12-month maternity cover contract. You will play a key role within the Development Management team, delivering high-quality planning decisions, supporting development control activities, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and policy.
This is a hybrid role, with an expectation of approximately 1 day per week in the office, alongside regular site visits across the county (own vehicle required).
Key Responsibilities
* Process and assess planning applications, Listed Building applications, advertisement consents, notifications and consultations
* Prepare high-quality committee reports and recommendations
* Provide professional planning advice to applicants, agents, developers, and stakeholders
* Undertake site visits and attend meetings as required
* Negotiate with developers to achieve positive planning outcomes aligned with Council objectives
* Assist with appeals, including preparation of statements, proofs of evidence, and attendance at hearings/inquiries
* Liaise with internal departments, external agencies, parish/town councils, and elected members
* Support mentoring and supervision of junior staff where required
* Contribute to service improvement and digital system development
Essential Requirements
* Degree or Diploma in Town and Country Planning (or related discipline)
* Significant experience within Development Management / Development Control
* Strong knowledge of planning legislation, procedures, and policy
* Excellent negotiation, communication, and report writing skills
* Ability to manage workload effectively and meet deadlines under pressure
* IT proficient (Microsoft Office systems)
* Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for site visits
* Basic DBS check required
Desirable Requirements
* Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)
* Experience working with elected members and parish/town councils
* Strong legal/procedural planning knowledge
* Political awareness and stakeholder management experience
Additional Information
* Must be willing to undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in line with RTPI requirements
* Flexible working required to meet service needs
* Role may involve occasional duties outside of core responsibilities consistent with grade
Salary description
£42.00 - £42.00 per hour