Principal Planning Officer (Spatial Planning)

Essex County Council; Chelmsford; Hybrid; GBP 47,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority is seeking a Principal Planning Officer to assist in delivering the Greater Essex Spatial Development Strategy. This role involves leading on local planning policies and engaging with stakeholders to ensure sustainable development. Candidates should have a degree in Town Planning or Geography, strong analytical skills, and significant experience in strategic planning. The position offers a hybrid working model and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Opportunities for career development

Innovative work environment

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualification experience in strategic planning.
• Knowledge of planning legislation and policies.
• Ability to manage workload effectively and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Support Essex's spatial policy objectives to promote sustainable growth.
• Lead engagement in preparing Local Plans and related policies.
• Influence stakeholders in spatial planning activities.

Skills

Analytical skills

Project management skills

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Town Planning or Geography

Job description

Principal Planning Officer (Spatial Planning), Chelmsford

Client: Essex County Council

Location: Chelmsford

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Reference: 04012e194060

Job Views: 5

Posted: 12.08.2025

Expiry Date: 26.09.2025

Job Description:

Fixed Term, Full Time

Salary: £47,532 to £55,919 per annum

Working Style: Hybrid (2-3 days per month at a functional location)

Closing Date: 7th September 2025

This role will be offered on a fixed-term contract or secondment basis until 30th March 2028.

Role Overview:

This position involves assisting in the scope, preparation, and delivery of the Greater Essex Spatial Development Strategy (SDS), related planning policies, and engaging with Local Plans.

Essex County Council is a dynamic organization with a growth agenda, where planning plays a vital role in community well-being through sustainable development. The Planning Service manages relationships across various councils, developers, and partners to deliver high-quality development addressing housing, economic, infrastructure, and environmental needs.

The role requires collaboration with internal and external stakeholders on Essex’s spatial planning strategy, ensuring effective delivery and alignment with long-term community goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support Essex’s spatial policy objectives to promote sustainable growth.
• Lead engagement in preparing Local Plans, SDS, and related policies, ensuring statutory responsibilities and infrastructure needs are addressed.
• Coordinate and lead consultation responses and representation at Local Plan Examinations.
• Influence stakeholders and represent Essex’s interests in spatial planning activities.
• Support partner organizations and contribute to planning research and intelligence.
• Manage implications of planning responses proactively and sensitively.

Candidate Requirements:

• Degree in Town Planning, Geography, or equivalent experience.
• Professional development and membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute or eligibility.
• Significant post-qualification experience in strategic planning.
• Knowledge of planning legislation, policies, and stakeholder roles.
• Ability to work autonomously, manage workload, and meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Why Essex?

Essex offers a stimulating environment with flexible working options, a focus on innovation, and opportunities for career development. The county is committed to transformational change and delivering high-quality services to its residents.

In February 2025, Greater Essex joined the Government’s devolution priority programme, aiming to establish a Mayoral Combined County Authority by May 2026.

Essex County Council is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and promotes a respectful workplace.