Principal Planning Officer - Strategic Development

Charnwood Borough Council; Loughborough; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An ambitious council is seeking a Principal Planning Officer to join their Strategic Development Team. This role focuses on managing large-scale planning applications and engaging with local stakeholders to ensure sustainable urban development. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical and negotiation skills, with a proven track record in development management. With a commitment to community and environmental support, this position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in Charnwood. Enjoy generous annual leave, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment that prioritizes employee well-being.

Benefits

Agile working arrangements

Generous annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Access to Local Government Pension Scheme

Free parking

Qualifications

• Experience in handling large-scale planning proposals.
• Ability to produce high-quality reports and evidence statements.

Responsibilities

• Manage applications for large-scale major developments.
• Engage with stakeholders through community liaison groups.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Negotiation Skills

Stakeholder Engagement

Report Writing

Planning Performance Agreements

Education

Degree in Planning or related field

Job description

We are a customer-focused, ambitious, and dynamic organisation committed to supporting communities, looking after the environment, and creating a thriving economy.

About the Role

Following a restructure, the Council is seeking a Principal Planning Officer in our Strategic Development Team. We are looking for dedicated individuals who share our passion for making a difference in local communities here in Charnwood, Leicestershire.

The role involves working as part of a strategic development team, focusing on applications related to Charnwood's three sustainable urban extensions and managing applications for large-scale major developments. It's ideal for Planners experienced in handling large-scale proposals and interested in delivering strategic development sites. You will attend Planning Committee to present cases and see them through to determination, and engage with stakeholders through community liaison groups and project teams.

An ability to analyze complex planning issues, produce high-quality reports, letters, and evidence statements within deadlines, and manage stakeholder engagement on long-term projects is essential. Demonstrable skills in working effectively with Planning Performance Agreements, strong negotiation skills, and recent development management experience are crucial for success in this fast-paced role.

What We Offer

• Agile working arrangements, including home working with some office attendance
• Generous annual leave of 35.5 to 40.5 days, inclusive of bank holidays
• Closure of most services over Christmas
• Opportunities for professional development
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
• Free parking

We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant's Employer Recognition Gold Award. We prioritize employee well-being through groups like the Staff Forum, Health and Wellbeing Group, and Equality Working Group.

Find out more about this role and us at www.charnwood.gov.uk/jobs

About the Council

Charnwood, serving around 183,000 people, is one of the largest shire district councils in the country. We offer a range of services, from refuse collection to operating a theatre and historic markets.

Our services are built on our values: Pride in Charnwood, Customer Focused, and Working Together.

About Charnwood

Charnwood is a vibrant borough, ideal for living, working, visiting, and investing. It features stunning landscapes, with Loughborough at its heart, home to a world-class university, historic markets, and the UK's only major bell foundry. The community is diverse, enriched by students and international cultures.

Located centrally with excellent rail, road, and air links, Charnwood is at the forefront of innovation. Its economy is diversifying, leveraging research from Loughborough University and related industries. The borough offers a wide range of assets and opportunities for sustainable and inclusive growth, with exciting developments and regeneration projects to create high-quality jobs and economic prosperity.