Customer Services Assistant

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council; Newry; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading local council seeks a Planning Officer to provide professional and technical advice while fulfilling statutory functions in Planning. The role involves validating applications, conducting site visits, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with legislation. Ideal candidates will demonstrate experience in planning activities and possess strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Experience in planning-related activities.
• Ability to manage technical support staff.
• Strong communication skills for public inquiries.

Responsibilities

• Validation and processing of planning applications under supervision.
• Monitoring planning decisions and investigating unauthorised development.
• Assisting with preparation of development plans and public inquiries.

Skills

Technical advice

Report writing

GIS

Research and analysis

Job description

Main Purpose of the Post/Job Summary

To provide professional and technical advice, guidance, and recommendations, and to carry out all functions associated with delivering the Council’s responsibilities and statutory functions in respect of Planning.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Validation and processing of planning applications under supervision of a senior officer.
2. Undertaking site visits, participating in site meetings, writing reports of visits, and formulating professional opinions.
3. Assisting with the preparation of material for planning appeals and public inquiries.
4. Monitoring planning decisions, investigating suspected cases of unauthorised development, interviewing parties, taking statements, inspecting, surveying, photographing sites, writing reports, and representing the Council in enforcement notices, acting as a witness at court and enforcement appeals.
5. Assisting with the preparation of development plans, enhancement strategies, and regeneration proposals for conservation areas, town centres, and other settlements.
6. Researching and preparing reports relating to policy formulation and development control.
7. Managing technical support staff, if any.
8. Dealing with public enquiries via telephone, correspondence, and face-to-face.
9. Operating the Council’s IT Systems, including GIS.

All duties must be performed in compliance with relevant legislation, policies, and procedures, promoting the Council’s values and positive reputation, respecting confidentiality, and contributing to diversity and equal opportunity initiatives.