Senior Enforcement Officer (Planning Team)

Neway International Ltd; Shepton Mallet; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK-based recruitment firm is seeking a Senior Enforcement Officer to manage planning enforcement cases for Somerset Council. The role requires strong knowledge of planning legislation and the ability to handle investigations and assessments. The candidate will be responsible for liaising with stakeholders, preparing documentation, and supporting junior staff. This is an onsite role based in Shepton Mallet, offering a competitive pay rate and flexible working hours.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of planning legislation and enforcement procedures.
• Proven experience in planning enforcement or a related regulatory role.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload and work independently under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Manage and progress planning enforcement cases.
• Investigate alleged breaches of planning control.
• Liaise with stakeholders and represent the council in proceedings.

Skills

Knowledge of planning legislation

Investigative skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Job description

Neway International are seeking a Senior Enforcement Officer to join our client based with Somerset Council.

Location: Cannards Grave Road, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5BT

Hours: 37 per week

Start Date: 05/01/2026

Duration: ongoing

Pay Rates: £35.34 PAYE / £48.48 Umbrella

Work Pattern: On site and office 2 days per week (flexible)

About the Client

Somerset Council’s Planning Enforcement Team, part of the Community Place & Economy directorate, is responsible for ensuring compliance with planning legislation and protecting the integrity of the planning system. They are committed to delivering fair, transparent, and effective enforcement services to support sustainable development across the county.

The Role

As a Senior Enforcement Officer, you will be responsible for managing and progressing planning enforcement cases. You will undertake investigations, assess breaches of planning control, and take enforcement action where necessary. This role requires a strong understanding of planning legislation, excellent investigative skills, and the ability to balance enforcement with pragmatic solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Investigate alleged breaches of planning control, gathering evidence and assessing cases.
• Progress enforcement cases through to resolution, including formal action where required.
• Undertake site visits, inspections, and interviews to support investigations.
• Prepare reports, notices, and documentation in line with planning legislation and council procedures.
• Liaise with colleagues, stakeholders, and members of the public to provide clear advice and updates.
• Represent the council at meetings, hearings, and potentially in court proceedings.
• Contribute to the effective operation of the Planning Enforcement Team, supporting junior staff where appropriate.

Candidate Requirements

• Strong knowledge of planning legislation, enforcement procedures, and relevant case law.
• Proven experience in planning enforcement or a related regulatory role.
• Excellent investigative, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage confidently with stakeholders.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload and work independently under pressure.
• Professional, resilient, and pragmatic approach to enforcement.
• Flexible working style with willingness to attend site visits and office-based work as required.