Principal Planning Officer: Major Development Lead (Hybrid)

South Buckinghamshire; Aylesbury; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Exciting, high-profile projects

Ownership of projects

Career progression

Job summary

Buckinghamshire Council is seeking an experienced Principal Planning Officer to lead major and complex development proposals, from early engagement to on-site delivery. You will collaborate with cross‑department teams to drive high-profile schemes and shape places across Buckinghamshire.

Based in High Wycombe, you’ll balance stakeholder needs, policy requirements and deadlines, mentoring junior colleagues and contributing to service improvement while enjoying hybrid working and a competitive

Qualifications

• Experience of handling major or complex planning applications.
• Strong understanding of planning policy and the development process.
• Highly organised working practices with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Confidence working with a range of stakeholders, including applicants and elected members.
• Eligibility for (or membership of) the RTPI.

Responsibilities

• Lead on a varied caseload of major and complex planning applications.
• Secure and lead Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs).
• Negotiate S106 agreements and planning obligations.
• Work proactively with developers, agents, stakeholders and local communities.
• Represent the Council at appeals, hearings and inquiries.
• Advise elected members and committees; mentor junior colleagues; contribute to service improvement.

Skills

Major/Complex planning

Planning policy

Organised working practices

Negotiation skills

Stakeholder engagement

RTPI membership

Driving licence

Job description

Buckinghamshire Council is seeking an experienced Principal Planning Officer to lead major and complex development proposals, from early engagement to on-site delivery. You will collaborate with cross‑department teams to drive high-profile schemes and shape places across Buckinghamshire.

Based in High Wycombe, you’ll balance stakeholder needs, policy requirements and deadlines, mentoring junior colleagues and contributing to service improvement while enjoying hybrid working and a competitive