Head of Local Plans & Planning Policy

Carrington Blake Recruitment; Loughborough; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Local Authority seeks an experienced Team Leader to guide the preparation, implementation and review of the council’s Local Plan and planning policies. The role focuses on delivering sustainable development and meeting statutory requirements, with responsibility for a policy team and external partner coordination.

You will lead policy development, advise on applications, and oversee research, reporting to committees and public inquiries while managing staff and timelines.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in planning policy and Local Plan preparation or review.
• Strong knowledge of planning legislation, national planning policy and local development frameworks.
• Experience managing, supervising or leading planning policy staff.
• Experience preparing technical reports, evidence and policy documents.
• Excellent communication, report-writing and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage complex projects, competing priorities and statutory deadlines.
• Experience representing a local authority at planning examinations or public inquiries is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and review of the council’s statutory Local Plan and related planning policies, standards and guidance.
• Manage and supervise the Local Plans team, providing guidance and support on complex planning policy matters.
• Advise on planning applications, pre-application enquiries and the implementation of adopted development plan policies.
• Monitor changes in planning legislation, national policy and government guidance, advising the council on their implications.
• Prepare reports and present planning policy matters to council committees and project boards.
• Prepare evidence and represent the council at public inquiries, Local Plan examinations and other public hearings.
• Liaise with councillors, neighbouring local authorities, county councils, parish councils, government bodies and external agencies.
• Oversee research, surveys and data collection to support Local Plan preparation and review.
• Commission and manage external consultants supporting planning policy and Local Plan work.
• Support staff development, monitor performance and ensure the effective delivery of service objectives.

Job description

The Local Authority seeks an experienced Team Leader to guide the preparation, implementation and review of the council’s Local Plan and planning policies. The role focuses on delivering sustainable development and meeting statutory requirements, with responsibility for a policy team and external partner coordination.

You will lead policy development, advise on applications, and oversee research, reporting to committees and public inquiries while managing staff and timelines.