Principal Planning Officer

Telford and Wrekin Council; England; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in England seeks a Principal Town Planner to lead exciting planning projects. This role focuses on managing high-profile applications and engaging with the community to drive sustainability and urban development. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in complex planning, strong leadership abilities, and excellent communication skills. The position offers a competitive salary, flexible working options, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Competitive salary with relocation package

Generous annual leave (24-32 days) + 8 bank holidays

Flexible & hybrid working

Local Government Pension Scheme

Learning & development pathways

Employee benefits scheme

Health & wellbeing support

Free on-site parking

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing complex planning applications and appeals.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• A passion for place-making and sustainable development.
• Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead officer for major, high-profile planning applications.
• Work in a holistic, co-located team delivering excellent planning outcomes.
• Engage with the community and elected members to drive real change.

Skills

Management of complex planning applications

Leadership

Strong communication skills

Collaboration across disciplines

Job description

Are you ready to lead on some of the most exciting and ambitious planning projects in the country?

At Telford & Wrekin Council, we're proud to be recognised by Planning Resource as a Platinum Authority one of only 7 Planning Authorities across the country and we're looking for a Principal Town Planner to help us go even further.

This is your chance to join a high-performing, award-winning Development Management Team that's shaping the future of our borough through bold, sustainable growth and innovation.

Why This Role?

You'll be the lead officer for major, high-profile planning applications, including sustainable urban extensions and strategic land allocations as part of our new Local Plan. You'll work at the heart of a holistic, co-located team of expert consultees, all dedicated to delivering excellent planning outcomes.

We offer:

• A diverse and challenging caseload - from complex urban regeneration to greenfield development
• A strong scheme of delegation that empowers officers and supports responsive decision-making
• Close collaboration with elected members, engaging with the community and deliver real change

What You’ll Bring

We're looking for someone with:

• Proven experience in managing complex planning applications and appeals
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• A passion for place‑making and sustainable development
• The ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and with stakeholders

What We Offer

• A competitive salary with a generous relocation package considered for exceptional candidates.

• Generous annual leave (24-32 days) + 8 bank holidays + 1 concessionary day
• Flexible & hybrid working to support your lifestyle
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Learning & development pathways to support your career
• Employee benefits scheme with discounts on shopping, travel, and more
• Health & wellbeing support, including counselling and EAP
• Free on-site parking
• A modern office in the heart of Telford Town Centre–surrounded by green space, leisure, and culture

At Telford & Wrekin Council, we're proud of our inclusive culture and diverse workforce. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities.

Closing date: Sunday 18 January 2026

Written assessments and face to face interviews: 27 January 2026 @ SW1