Planning Officer: Infrastructure & Sustainable Growth Hybrid

South West Water; West Alvington; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

South West Water, operating in the South West, is seeking an experienced Planning Officer to join our Pre-Development Team and guide development to align with water and wastewater networks while supporting sustainable growth across the region.

You will work with local planning authorities, developers and internal specialists, handling a varied caseload across residential, commercial and strategic projects in a hybrid Exeter or Bristol setting.

Qualifications

• Degree in Town Planning or related discipline.
• Experience in a planning environment (local government, consultancy, utilities or infrastructure).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Review planning applications and development proposals, assessing impacts on water and wastewater infrastructure.
• Prepare representations and consultation responses for South West Water.
• Provide planning advice to internal and external stakeholders.
• Engage with local planning authorities, developers, landowners, consultants and customers.
• Support pre-application discussions and strategic development proposals.
• Monitor and review emerging planning policy, local plans and development frameworks.
• Represent South West Water at planning meetings and consultations.
• Collaborate with Developer Services, Asset Protection, Growth and Network Planning teams.
• Support delivery of sustainable growth through effective planning and infrastructure coordination.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Ability to work independently

Prioritisation

Education

Degree in Town Planning or related discipline

Job description

South West Water, operating in the South West, is seeking an experienced Planning Officer to join our Pre-Development Team and guide development to align with water and wastewater networks while supporting sustainable growth across the region.

You will work with local planning authorities, developers and internal specialists, handling a varied caseload across residential, commercial and strategic projects in a hybrid Exeter or Bristol setting.