Hybrid Planning Environment Lead

Chelmsford City Council; Chelmsford; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Chelmsford City Council is seeking an experienced planning professional to lead the Planning Environment Team, overseeing planning enforcement, the natural environment, and other town planning matters in the city.

The successful candidate will ensure development complies with legislation and policies, provide technical guidance, and promote high-quality, timely decisions while supporting sustainable growth and place-shaping.

Qualifications

• RTPI member or eligible
• Degree level in Town Planning or related discipline
• Extensive experience in complex planning matters including enforcement, applications and appeals
• Experience preparing reports/evidence for hearings, inquiries or legal proceedings
• Proven experience managing and developing professional staff
• Excellent communication, negotiation and leadership skills

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage and develop the Planning Environment Team with technical guidance and QA across a varied caseload.
• Ensure high-quality, timely and consistent decision-making in line with legislation and policies.
• Engage with Members, developers, communities and partners to deliver high-quality planning outcomes and effective enforcement.
• Promote continuous service improvement and customer-focused delivery.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Town Planning knowledge

Education

Degree in Town Planning

RTPI membership

Job description

Chelmsford City Council is seeking an experienced planning professional to lead the Planning Environment Team, overseeing planning enforcement, the natural environment, and other town planning matters in the city.

The successful candidate will ensure development complies with legislation and policies, provide technical guidance, and promote high-quality, timely decisions while supporting sustainable growth and place-shaping.