Principal Planning Officer

We Manage Jobs(WMJobs); Shrewsbury; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Shrewsbury is seeking a Principal Town Planner to join their award-winning Development Management Team. You will lead significant planning projects, managing complex applications while working collaboratively with experts. Offering a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible working, this role supports sustainable development and community engagement, making a real impact. Join a diverse team that values inclusivity, with plenty of development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous annual leave

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 within a holistic, co-located team of expert consultees.
• Engage with the community and deliver real change.

Skills

Management of complex planning applications

Leadership

Communication

Place-making

Collaborative work

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

Attached documents: Principal Planning Officer.docx