Planning Lead (Town/Environmental Planner)

Balance Power; Liverpool City Region, St Helens; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Planning Lead to join their dynamic Planning Team. This role involves managing planning applications and engaging with various stakeholders to support energy development projects. The ideal candidate will have over three years of experience in town planning, a strong grasp of UK regulations, and excellent communication skills. You’ll represent the organization at planning committees and contribute to business development activities. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a company dedicated to innovative energy solutions while enjoying benefits like flexible working and private healthcare.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Flexible working

On-site Parking

Private Healthcare

Professional Membership paid annually

CPD opportunities

Pension

Quarterly socials

EV Salary sacrifice scheme

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in town planning within a local authority or consultancy.
• Strong knowledge of UK planning policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage planning applications for solar and battery developments.
• Provide planning advice ensuring compliance with UK legislation.

Skills

Town Planning

UK Planning Regulations

Stakeholder Engagement

Negotiation Skills

Analytical Skills

Project Management

Education

Degree in Town Planning

Chartered Membership of RTPI

Job description

Main Duties

Balance Power are thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity within our growing Planning Team as a Planning Lead. As a member of the Planning & Design Team, you will be managing planning applications, engaging with stakeholders, and supporting the delivery of energy development projects. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled professional with at least three years of experience in town planning within a local authority, consultancy, or developer environment.

Your responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):

• Lead and manage planning applications for largely solar and battery developments.
• Provide planning advice and recommendations to internal and external stakeholders, ensuring compliance with UK planning legislation and local policies.
• Liaise with multidisciplinary teams, including environmental, legal, and engineering professionals, to support project development.
• Monitor and respond to changes in planning policy, legislation, and best practice guidance.
• Represent the organisation at planning committees, public inquiries, and stakeholder meetings.
• Assist in business development activities by identifying opportunities and contributing to proposals.

Skills / Qualifications

• Degree (or equivalent) in Town Planning, Urban Planning, or a related discipline.
• Chartered membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or eligibility for membership.
• Minimum of three years of experience in town planning within a local council, consultancy, or developer.
• Strong knowledge of UK planning regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Experience in energy projects (preferred), including renewable energy, grid infrastructure, or major developments. Similar or adjacent sectors would be suitable as well.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills with the ability to engage with a variety of stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail in preparing planning applications and reports.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, budgets, and deadlines effectively.
• A proactive, problem-solving mindset and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 25 days per annum + all bank holidays
• Flexible working available
• On-site Parking
• Private Healthcare (Day 1)
• 1 professional Membership paid for by BPP per annum
• CPD opportunities
• Pension
• Quarterly socials
• EV Salary sacrifice scheme

Person Specification

Balance Power is a growing company with a robust project portfolio and pipeline of generation projects - the successful applicant will mirror the characteristics and values of the company and strive for success in everything they undertake.