Senior Planning Lead – Major Developments (Hybrid)

New Forest District Council; Lyndhurst; Hybrid; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Cycle to Work scheme

LGPS

Employee Assistance Programme

Staff discounts

Learning & development opportunities

Inclusive culture

Job summary

The New Forest District Council is seeking an experienced Principal Development Management Officer on a fixed-term contract to 31 March 2028. You will lead on major schemes, guide complex decisions, and work with elected members, developers and communities to achieve high quality outcomes.

You will manage a portfolio of significant planning applications, provide expert advice, and support the Development Management Service in delivering sustainable growth across the district.

Qualifications

• Degree or postgraduate qualification in Town Planning.
• Eligibility for membership of the RTPI.
• Substantial Development Management experience, including senior level.
• Knowledge of planning legislation, policy and practice.
• Excellent report-writing and presentation skills.
• Strong project management, ICT and analytical abilities.
• Sound professional judgments on complex planning issues.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload of major and strategically important planning applications.
• Leading on complex pre-application discussions and development proposals.
• Exercising delegated authority on planning matters and routine enforcement cases.
• Preparing and presenting reports to Planning Committee.
• Representing the Council at inquiries, hearings, tribunals and public meetings.
• Providing professional guidance and support to colleagues.
• Contributing to the ongoing development, performance and success of the Development Management Service.

Skills

Report-writing

Presentation skills

Communication

Stakeholder management

Project management

Analytical abilities

Education

Town Planning degree or postgraduate qualification

RTPI membership eligibility

Job description

The New Forest District Council is seeking an experienced Principal Development Management Officer on a fixed-term contract to 31 March 2028. You will lead on major schemes, guide complex decisions, and work with elected members, developers and communities to achieve high quality outcomes.

You will manage a portfolio of significant planning applications, provide expert advice, and support the Development Management Service in delivering sustainable growth across the district.