Senior Landscape & Biodiversity Lead — Hybrid & Flexible

The Methodist Church in Britain; Huntingdon; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexitime

Hybrid work model

Benefits page

Job summary

Huntingdonshire District Council is seeking a lead specialist in landscape and biodiversity within Planning Services. The role focuses on assessing planning applications, Environmental Impact Assessments and Biodiversity Net Gain, with responsibility for policy development and expert evidence at appeals.

The successful candidate will advise on biodiversity, nature recovery, and environmental policy, working with developers, consultants and elected members.

Qualifications

• Experience assessing landscape and biodiversity impacts
• Ability to interpret environmental information for professional advice
• Strong understanding of planning policy and legislation

Responsibilities

• Act as council's lead specialist on landscape and biodiversity across planning and environmental matters
• Assess planning applications and development proposals for landscape and biodiversity impacts
• Advise on major planning applications and Environmental Impact Assessments
• Provide technical guidance on landscape and biodiversity issues
• Deliver Biodiversity Net Gain requirements
• Support nature recovery initiatives and Environment Act obligations
• Contribute to environmental policy development
• Represent the council at appeals, inquiries and other proceedings
• Review environmental information and provide clear, well-reasoned advice
• Collaborate with developers, consultants, elected members and external stakeholders
• Present recommendations to senior officers, members and external audiences

Skills

Planning system knowledge

Environmental legislation

Sustainable development

Communication skills

Independent working

Policy guidance

Education

Degree in a relevant subject

Job description

Huntingdonshire District Council is seeking a lead specialist in landscape and biodiversity within Planning Services. The role focuses on assessing planning applications, Environmental Impact Assessments and Biodiversity Net Gain, with responsibility for policy development and expert evidence at appeals.

The successful candidate will advise on biodiversity, nature recovery, and environmental policy, working with developers, consultants and elected members.