Principal Planner

Job Description

As part of the Council Planning Service, you’ll play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality, sustainable growth for our diverse and vibrant borough. You’ll manage and mentor a team of talented planning officers, oversee complex and high-profile planning applications, and work collaboratively to deliver regeneration ambitions.\n\nKey Responsibilities\n\n * Lead and manage major and complex planning applications, acting as the Council’s expert during negotiations and appeals.\n\n * Guide and develop a team of Senior Planners, Planners, and Technical Officers.\n\n * Advise Members, stakeholders, and committees on strategic planning issues.\n\n * Prepare and present reports to planning committees and at public inquiries.\n\n * Drive service improvements and ensure best practice in planning casework.\n\n * Represent Council at public meetings, hearings, and appeals.\n\nAbout You\n\n * Accredited degree in Town Planning or a related field (RTPI eligible).\n\n * Expert knowledge of planning law, policy frameworks, and procedures.\n\n * Substantial experience handling complex/major developments and committee work.\n\n * Proven leadership and mentoring skills.\n\n * First-class communication, negotiation, and report-writing ability.\n\n * Able to work independently and collaboratively, with strong political awareness