Principal Town Planner

Roc Search GmbH; England; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council in the UK is seeking an experienced interim Principal Planner for their Major Development team. This role involves managing a high-profile caseload of major planning applications, preparing officer reports, and advising on planning matters. Candidates should have RTPI membership and significant experience in planning. The position offers a flexible hybrid working model with a strong focus on major applications.

Qualifications

• RTPI membership is required.
• Excellent knowledge of planning law is needed.
• Strong experience with major applications is essential.

Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload of major planning applications.
• Preparing reports and recommendations.
• Handling planning appeals.

Skills

RTPI membership

Strong experience of major planning applications

Excellent knowledge of planning law, policy, and case law

Strong report writing skills

Strong communication skills

Political awareness

Education

Postgraduate qualification in planning

Job description

Overview

I'm currently supporting Sussex Council who are looking for an interim Principal Planner to join their Major Development team. This is a great opportunity to take on a high-profile caseload of major applications while working on a hybrid basis.

Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload of major planning applications through to decision.


• Preparing officer reports and recommendations for committee and under delegated powers.


• Handling planning appeals and representing the council at inquiries where needed.


• Advising councillors, colleagues, and the public on planning matters.


• Keeping up to date with planning law, policy, and case law.


• Providing support to junior officers and deputising for senior management where required.

Qualifications

• RTPI membership and a postgraduate qualification in planning.


• Strong experience of major planning applications at senior level (local authority background preferred).


• Excellent knowledge of planning law, policy, and case law.


• Strong report writing, communication, and political awareness skills.


• Full UK driving licence (site visits required).

Details

• Rate: £30-£40ph (via agency PAYE or umbrella, IR35 status to be confirmed with the client)


• Location: Haywards Heath (hybrid - min. 1 day per week in office + committees/site visits)


• Start: ASAP


• Duration: Up to 12 months


• Hours: 37 per week, 9-5 (flexible)

If you're interested, or know someone in your network who might be, please send me an updated CV and we can arrange a call to discuss further.