Planning Officer: National and Major Projects - CNS05452

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar is seeking a Planning Officer for a permanent position focusing on National and Major Projects. The role involves providing professional planning services, managing renewable energy developments, and engaging with developers. Applicants must hold RTPI membership and have experience in Development Management. This opportunity offers a competitive salary and the chance to work within the vibrant community of the Outer Hebrides.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in Development Management/Development Plan work.
• Knowledge of current planning legislation and EIA processes is essential.
• A current full UK driving licence is mandatory.

Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload related to major projects, especially in Renewable Energy.
• Processing and assessing applications and providing planning advice.
• Drafting and presenting reports for Committee and defending decisions.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Education

Full or Associate Membership of the RTPI

Job description

Advert

Planning Officer: National and Major Projects
37 hours per week, permanent position
£45,243 to £48,966 per annum, inclusive of £2,859 Distant Islands Allowance per annum

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar is the Planning Authority for the islands of the Outer Hebrides, an area renowned for its strong sense of community, environmental quality, beautiful scenery, outdoor opportunities, low crime rates, good educational opportunities, and a vibrant cultural scene.

By 2027, the Isle of Lewis will be connected to the National Grid via a 1.8GW radial interconnector cable, unlocking large-scale renewable energy development potential in the Outer Hebrides. Alongside this, there are proposals for significant development of electricity infrastructure, classified as National Development due to its status as part of the National Grid. This creates a need to address the consenting requirements of a programme of National, Major, and/or EIA development projects.

The Planning Officer will provide professional planning services to help the Comhairle fulfill its statutory planning duties and related services. Working within the Development Management team, the main focus will be managing a caseload related to major projects, especially those concerning Renewable Energy developments, energy infrastructure, and associated Housing.

You will adhere to the RTPI Code of Professional Conduct and engage constructively with developers and their agents in the Renewables and Electricity Infrastructure sectors. Your duties include processing and assessing applications, providing planning advice, implementing and facilitating project delivery, drafting and presenting reports for Committee, and defending decisions at planning appeals, hearings, or inquiries.

Applicants must hold Full or Associate Membership of the RTPI and demonstrate extensive experience in Development Management/Development Plan work. Knowledge of current planning legislation, guidance, and EIA processes is essential. Strong interpersonal, negotiation, communication skills, and the ability to work responsibly within a small team while managing your workload are crucial.

A current full UK driving licence is mandatory.

An employee testimonial is attached to provide insights into working as a Planning Officer in the Outer Hebrides from a current team member.

The salary includes the Distant Islands Allowance. Appointment will be at the first point of the grade.

Please see the attached Job Description & Person Specification for more details. It is vital to read these documents and address each essential criterion in your supporting statement.

Interviews will be held in person, offering candidates a chance to meet the team and experience our work environment.

Closing Date: Monday 16 June 2025