Planning Ecologist

Cheltenham Borough Council; Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in Cheltenham is seeking a Senior Planning Ecologist to drive biodiversity net gain initiatives. The role involves providing expert guidance on BNG applications, collaborating with stakeholders, and ensuring ecological standards are upheld. Ideal candidates will have ecological expertise and excellent communication skills to support sustainable development efforts.

Qualifications

• Deep commitment to protecting biodiversity
• Sound understanding of BNG policy and practice
• Ability to advise planners and developers

Responsibilities

• Act as key consultee on BNG-related applications
• Provide expert advice on BNG metrics and plans
• Work collaboratively to resolve BNG issues

Skills

Ecological expertise

Excellent communication skills

Experience with ecological reports

Proactive mindset

Job description

Overview

With BNG requirements becoming mandatory in 2024, this is a pivotal time to join our forward-thinking Planning team. Your principal focus will be to embed BNG into the planning process - advising our Development Management team, supporting applicants, and helping ensure that biodiversity thrives alongside new development.

Responsibilities

• Act as the council's key consultee on BNG-related applications, providing expert ecological advice on:
  • the adequacy of submitted BNG metrics and plans
  • on-site and off-site BNG delivery strategies
  • BNG Plans, legal obligations, and planning conditions
  • reviewing ecological assessments and condition discharge materials
• Approach will be solution-focused and collaborative. Proactively flag BNG issues early and work constructively with applicants to resolve them, promoting biodiversity in one of the UK\'s most liveable towns.

Qualifications

• Ecological expertise and a sound understanding of BNG policy and practice
• Excellent communication skills to advise planners, developers, and consultants
• Experience reviewing ecological reports, plans, and biodiversity metric tools
• A pragmatic, proactive mindset that supports positive planning outcomes

We\'re seeking someone who\'s deeply committed to protecting biodiversity and driving forward a more sustainable future. For more details please see Senior Planning Ecologist Job Description.

Cheltenham Borough Council is a multi-award-winning local authority, recognised for our dynamic approach to Place Shaping and regeneration. As a council, we\'re not just keeping pace with change - we\'re shaping it. We\'re driving bold, sustainable economic growth across the borough, and right now, we\'re looking for a passionate Senior Planning Ecologist to help lead the way on Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).