Principal Planning Officer

Bedford Borough Council; Bedford; On-site; GBP 52,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Bedford is seeking a motivated Principal Planning Officer to deliver significant development projects. The role requires experience in handling major planning applications, strong teamwork abilities, and excellent customer service skills. This is a permanent full-time position offering flexible working arrangements, including a mix of office and home working.

Benefits

Flexible working practices

Opportunities for career development

Qualifications

• Motivated planner with experience in urban and rural development.
• Ability to deliver significant development projects.
• Strong knowledge of planning processes and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Deliver significant development projects within the Borough.
• Collaborate effectively within a team.
• Ensure excellent customer service in planning applications.

Skills

Proactive approach to place-shaping

Excellent customer service skills

Experience handling major and complex applications

Ability to work in a team

Job description

Principal Planning Officer

Bedford Borough Council

• Location: Bedford, Bedfordshire
• Salary: £52,413-£56,676 per year
• Contract: Permanent
• Work Pattern: Full-time
• Posted: 17 hours ago

We currently have a number of exciting opportunities within the Bedford Borough Planning Service. This role is ideal for an astute, forward-thinking principal planner with experience, knowledge, and drive to deliver significant development projects within the Borough.

Bedford is a traditional market town with excellent educational settings and cultural facilities. The River Great Ouse and urban parks provide a high-quality environment. For those preferring rural living, many attractive villages are available.

Bedford Borough Council is committed to sustainable growth, aiming to deliver new homes, regenerate town centers, and enhance the environment and transport system.

This is a fantastic opportunity to develop your planning career through urban and rural development, regeneration schemes, and sustainable settlements. We offer flexible working practices, including a mix of office and home-working.

We seek a motivated, innovative planner with experience in handling major and complex applications. A proactive approach to place-shaping, excellent customer service skills, and teamwork are essential.

Interested? For an informal chat, email [e-mail] or [e-mail].

How to apply

Click 'Apply for Vacancy' when ready. Upload your CV and answer application questions. Ensure your CV demonstrates how you meet the role's requirements. An optional CV template is provided.

Please note: The Council will not re-employ ex-employees who:

• Received a severance payment within 12 months of leaving
• Are in receipt of a local government pension (for Senior Officers) unless the appointment is business critical

For further info, email [e-mail].

Closing Date: 2nd September 2025

Interview Date: W/C 15th September 2025

Bedford Borough Council supports the Armed Forces Covenant, Care Leavers Covenant, and is a Disability Confident Employer.

Additional Vacancy Info

• Allowance (pro rata for part-time): N/A
• Is this an enhanced DBS role? No
• Is this a politically restricted role? No
• Customer-facing role requiring fluent English? Yes

Vacancy Location

• Location: Bedfordshire
• Location: Borough Hall Bedford
• Designated car user position? Yes