Planning Policy Specialist – Hybrid (Local Plan)

Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council; Barnsley; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible and hybrid working

RTPI membership support

Generous annual leave

Training and development

Job summary

Barnsley Council is seeking talented planning professionals to join our welcoming Planning Policy team. You’ll contribute to shaping Barnsley’s Local Plan and broader planning strategy, with emphasis on housing, infrastructure and sustainable growth.

We offer flexible and hybrid working arrangements, RTPI membership support, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional development within a collaborative, supportive team.

Qualifications

• Experience of planning policy, spatial planning or related work.
• Strong understanding of the planning system and Local Plans.
• Analytical, report-writing and research capabilities.
• Confident communication with diverse audiences.
• Collaborative approach and good stakeholder relationships.
• Excellent organisational and project management skills.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for communities and places.

Responsibilities

• Support Local Plan preparation, progression, implementation and monitoring.
• Develop IT solutions including GIS and MS365 to support Local Plan work.
• Develop planning policies aligned with local priorities and reform.
• Prepare evidence studies, consultation material, reports and policy documents.
• Collaborate with officers, councillors, communities, developers, and partners.
• Shape strategies for sustainable growth, regeneration, housing and economic development.
• Contribute to creating attractive, healthy and resilient places.
• Present evidence and represent the Council at examinations and meetings.
• Support delivery of corporate priorities and long-term growth.

Skills

Planning policy experience

Spatial planning understanding

Analytical skills

Report-writing skills

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Project management

Tools

Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

MS365

Job description

Barnsley Council is seeking talented planning professionals to join our welcoming Planning Policy team. You’ll contribute to shaping Barnsley’s Local Plan and broader planning strategy, with emphasis on housing, infrastructure and sustainable growth.

We offer flexible and hybrid working arrangements, RTPI membership support, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional development within a collaborative, supportive team.