Planning Officer

Ards and North Down Borough Council; Newtownards; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading council in Northern Ireland is seeking a Planning Officer to support sustainable development through effective planning and policy formulation. The role involves processing applications, conducting site visits, and engaging with the community. Ideal candidates will have relevant qualifications and experience in planning, along with strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• At least 6 months experience in a planning environment if holding a degree.
• At least two years experience in a planning environment if holding an HNC.

Responsibilities

• Validation and processing of planning applications under supervision.
• Conducting site visits and preparing reports.
• Assisting with planning appeals and inquiries.

Skills

Communication

Workload Management

Education

Degree in Planning

HNC in Planning

Tools

Microsoft Office

GIS

Job description

Join to apply for the Planning Officer role at Ards and North Down Borough Council.

Job Title: Planning Officer
Directorate: Prosperity, but may be required to work in any Directorate across the Council.
Department: Planning, but may be required to work in any Department across the Council.
Location: Church Street Offices, Newtownards, but may be required to work at any location throughout the Borough.
Reports to: Senior Planning Officer.
Salary Scale: SO1 SCP to 36,124 per annum.
Car User Status: Casual.

Purpose and Function of the Post

Planning plays a vital role in delivering sustainable development responsive to local needs. The post holder will contribute to effective service delivery by balancing social, economic, and environmental factors in policy formulation, planning application determination, and enforcement. The role may involve working in Development Management, Development Plan, or Enforcement sections.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

1. Validation and processing of planning applications under supervision.
2. Conducting site visits, participating in meetings, and preparing reports.
3. Assisting with planning appeals and inquiries.
4. Monitoring decisions, investigating unauthorized development, and representing the Council in enforcement actions.
5. Assisting with development plans, conservation, and regeneration proposals.
6. Research and report preparation related to policy and development control.
7. Managing technical support staff, if applicable.
8. Handling public inquiries via phone, correspondence, or face-to-face.
9. Operating IT systems including GIS.
10. Promoting equality, health, and safety policies.
11. Undertaking other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

A degree or equivalent in planning, Environmental Science, Geography, Architecture, Urban Regeneration, or an HNC or equivalent in these fields.

Experience

If holding a degree: at least 6 months in a planning environment.
If holding an HNC: at least two years in a planning environment.
Experience in preparing and presenting planning reports and knowledge of NI Planning Policy and Legislation.

Key Skills & Abilities

• Competent in Microsoft Office, email, and digital diaries.
• Ability to work independently and communicate effectively.
• Strong workload management and deadline adherence skills.

Other Requirements

A valid driving license and access to suitable transportation. Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute or Irish Planning Institute is desirable.