Planning Policy Officer - Permanent

Woking Borough Council; Woking; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

The Woking Borough Council is hiring a Planning Policy Officer to shape local planning policies and support community development. This role involves collaborating with various stakeholders and requires a solid understanding of planning policy, along with excellent communication skills. The council offers a hybrid working model, competitive benefits, and career development opportunities.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Career development opportunities

Competitive benefits package

Qualifications

• Understanding of planning policy at local government level.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Support the progress of neighbourhood planning.
• Prepare and procure evidence for planning policies.
• Provide expert advice on planning issues.

Skills

Communication

Project Management

Analytical Skills

Education

Degree in Town Planning or Geography

Job description

Salary circa £28,000 per annum plus flexible benefits of circa £1881

Location:

Woking (Hybrid)

Contract:

Permanent

Working Pattern:

Flexible Hours/Full Time

Hours:

37 hours per week.

DBS Check:

No

Closing Date:

13/07/2025 at 23:59

Reference:

PLAC/25/317062

Are you passionate about shaping the future of Woking and delivering sustainable growth? Do you want to make a real impact in creating a thriving, vibrant community? Woking Borough Council is looking for dedicated and dynamic Planning Policy Officers to join our forward-thinking and busy Planning Policy team.

About the Role: As a Planning Policy Officer, you will play a pivotal role in bringing forward the new local plan. You will prepare and procure evidence and help to shape the planning policies that will deliver local priorities, shaping the development and regeneration of Woking. This will involve a deep dive into some topic areas, giving you the opportunity to develop your knowledge and expertise within a friendly and supportive team. Your work will include supporting the progress of neighbourhood planning and providing expert advice on planning policy issues to colleagues, elected members and external stakeholders. You will assist with monitoring and data collection to make sure we are responding to emerging trends and legislation.

What We’re Looking For:

You could be a recent graduate or have some experience and looking for a new challenge. You will have a good understanding of planning policy and its application at local government level.

Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage effectively with a range of stakeholders will be essential along with a ‘can-do’ attitude and good project management skills.

A degree in Town Planning, Geography, or a related discipline is desirable, along with membership (or working towards membership) of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).

Why Work With Us?

In return, we offer a competitive salary and benefits package and opportunities for career development and training. Flexible working options include hybrid working (2 days a week in the office). Be part of a passionate and supportive team making a tangible difference to the future of Woking.

If you’re ready to contribute to the development of Woking and want to work in an exciting, impactful role, we’d love to hear from you. For an informal discussion about the role, please email [e-mail]

Closing date : 13 July 2025 @23.59

In person interviews: 21 and 22 July 2025

How to apply

Woking Borough Council values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Please apply online via the link provided.