Senior Local Plan Policy Lead (Contract)

Matchtech; Thatcham; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Flexible hours

Job summary

Matchtech is seeking a Principal Policy Planner on behalf of a client to support the preparation of a new Local Plan. The role requires substantial planning policy experience and a proven ability to manage complex, evidence-based projects with external consultants.

The successful candidate will provide expert planning policy advice, develop clear policy documents and contribute to consultations and examinations. Hybrid working with weekly attendance at Maidenhead Town Hall is expected.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in planning policy and Local Plan preparation.
• Strong knowledge of the planning system, Local Plan processes and policy.
• Experience producing or managing technical evidence for Local Plans.
• Experience procuring consultants and managing procurement processes.
• Understanding of HELAA, Strategic Flood Risk Assessments, housing and economic needs, and retail studies.
• Experience in Local Plan public examinations or giving evidence at public inquiries is desirable.
• Local authority or wider public sector planning experience preferred; private sector considered.

Responsibilities

• Support development and preparation of a new Local Plan.
• Commission, procure and manage specialist evidence studies and external consultants.
• Manage and interpret evidence including SFRA, HELAA, housing/economic needs, retail and town centre studies.
• Provide expert planning policy and town planning advice to internal teams and stakeholders.
• Prepare clear reports, policy documents and recommendations to support decisions.
• Contribute to Local Plan consultations, public examinations and related planning processes.
• Give evidence at public inquiries where required.
• Manage complex policy work and deliver outputs within agreed timescales.

Skills

Planning policy

Local Plan development

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Report writing

Communication skills

Job description

Matchtech is seeking a Principal Policy Planner on behalf of a client to support the preparation of a new Local Plan. The role requires substantial planning policy experience and a proven ability to manage complex, evidence-based projects with external consultants.

The successful candidate will provide expert planning policy advice, develop clear policy documents and contribute to consultations and examinations. Hybrid working with weekly attendance at Maidenhead Town Hall is expected.