Senior Planning Officer - Development Management

About the role

The Senior Planning Officer will provide high‑quality planning advice across a wide range of applications, including major developments, complex schemes and pre‑application proposals. Reporting to the Development Management Team Leader, you will manage your own caseload and mentor junior team members.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of major and complex planning applications and pre‑applications.
• Undertake consultations, site visits and negotiations with applicants and stakeholders.
• Prepare reports, recommendations and recommendations for Planning Committee.
• Present applications at committee meetings and attend related meetings as required.
• Provide clear, practical advice to applicants, residents and stakeholders.
• Support appeals work, including written representations, hearings and inquiries.
• Negotiate planning obligations and secure high‑quality development outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal teams and refer briefs as needed.

Required profile

• Proven ability to manage a caseload of major and complex planning applications.
• Experience delivering planning advice to a variety of stakeholders.
• Capability to mentor and support junior team members.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Flexible working hours with up to 2 flexi days per month.
• Hybrid working policy (approximately 60% homeworking).
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Support for CPD and professional subscriptions.
• Free staff parking.
• Confidential employee advice and support programme.
• Promotion of a healthy work‑life balance.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment.