Planning & Development Consultant (Strategic Planning)

Matchtech; England; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading planning consultancy in the UK seeks an individual with strong policy knowledge and analytical skills to assist in identifying development sites. The role involves liaising with landowners, preparing planning appraisals, and providing support in development management processes. Candidates should have a degree in planning or related fields, and previous experience in local plans or policy is a plus. A supportive environment encourages professional development and training.

Qualifications

• Experience in local plans or policy is desirable.
• Strong understanding of development management processes.
• Willingness to undergo training in consultancy work.

Responsibilities

• Identify sites for residential and mixed-use development.
• Liaise with landowners to assess planning potential.
• Support senior planning colleagues with development management tasks.

Skills

Policy knowledge in Local Plan representations

Networking skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Planning or related field

Job description

Overview

We are an award-winning planning, development, and ecology consultancy providing bespoke, commercially sound advice to a wide range of private clients. Our work is primarily focused on residential planning, with a portfolio that spans the full spectrum of development projects - from large-scale schemes with national house builders to smaller, unique domestic projects.

The team specialises in coordinating project teams, shaping development proposals, and building strong relationships with local planning authorities to secure planning permission. With projects across Bedfordshire, Greater London, the Southeast, and beyond, we are known for our commercial insight, problem-solving ability, and the trusted relationships we maintain with our clients.

As a small, friendly team, we offer an enjoyable and supportive working environment. Team members benefit from direct access to clients and projects, which creates excellent opportunities for professional development. Career progression is actively encouraged and supported.

The Role

Building on your strong policy knowledge in Local Plan representations and strategic land promotion, you will work closely with colleagues in the Land and Planning departments to identify sites for residential and mixed-use development, taking into account both technical and planning considerations. Previous experience in local plans or policy is desirable.

You will liaise with landowners to assess the planning potential of their sites, preparing appraisals to inform planning strategies. You will also engage with developers to provide planning input during site acquisition and sales processes.

Depending on your experience and training, you may also support senior planning colleagues with Development Management work, either linked to a strategic site or other planning projects across the business.

You will receive training in the administrative aspects of consultancy work (such as managing client enquiries, preparing Confirmation of Instructions, time recording, and invoicing) and will also be encouraged to gain experience in related areas, including ecology.

Strategic Planning

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assisting senior colleagues in the Planning and Land departments with:
• Site Searches
• Selecting locations strategically, considering factors such as 5-year land supply, Green Belt, and market values.
• Identifying potential sites based on technical and planning constraints.
• Researching Local Plans, SHLAAs, and Neighbourhood Plans.
• Contacting landowners or their representatives.
• Monitoring Local Plan and Neighbourhood Plan preparation to identify key consultation stages.
• Networking
• Meeting with developers and maintaining a database of site requirements.
• Engaging with agents and identifying potential landowners (private, public, and corporate).
• Development Appraisals

Development Management (as required)

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supporting senior planning colleagues with:
• Reviewing enquiry details and preparing responses.
• Preparing fee proposals during the enquiry process.
• Preparing and submitting planning applications, pre-application schemes, and appeals.
• Conducting site appraisals and policy reviews.
• Checking documents and reports for accuracy, compliance, and alignment with project strategy.
• Analysis and research related to Local Plan or policy preparation.
• Coordinating other consultants and obtaining fee quotes.
• Conducting photographic surveys during site visits.
• Advising colleagues on planning procedural changes, legislation, and their implications.
• Assisting with public consultations, including preparing materials and attending events.
• Monitoring planning applications and liaising with Case Officers for updates.
• Gathering and analysing data for project assessments.
• Attending meetings with clients, stakeholders, Parish Councils, and Planning Committees, with responsibility for note-taking.
• Supporting general administration tasks such as filing, document preparation, and database management.
• Managing your workload effectively on a weekly basis.
• Developing technical knowledge and understanding of planning and environmental law.
• Working towards professional qualifications and undertaking ongoing training.