Senior Planning Officer

Fox Morris Group Ltd; Hounslow; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Senior Planning Officer for various South-based councils in the UK. This hybrid/remote role involves managing planning applications, liaising with developers, and mentoring junior staff. Candidates should have substantial experience in local authority planning, especially with complex applications and appeals. Competitive remuneration and initial 6-month contract with possible extensions.

Benefits

Generous referral bonus

Qualifications

• Experience working independently with planning regulations.
• Proven capability handling major and complex planning applications.
• Experience with appeal processes, including hearings and inquiries.

Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse caseload of planning applications.
• Liaise with developers and planning agents for high-quality outcomes.
• Prepare and present reports for Planning Committees.
• Mentor junior officers and provide planning advice.
• Represent the Council at hearings and public inquiries.
• Provide accurate advice to members and applicants.

Skills

Experience working within a local authority planning department

Understanding of planning regulations

Handling major and complex applications

Negotiation skills

Job description

Overview

Senior Planning Officer - South Councils (South East, South West, South Central) - Hybrid / Remote Working

Locations

Roles are available across multiple South-based councils. Areas include but are not limited to:

• South East: Kent, Surrey, East Sussex, West Sussex, Hampshire
• South West: Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire
• South Central: Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Isle of Wight

(Hybrid and remote working options offered — extent of remote work varies by authority)

Key Accountabilities

• Manage a complex and diverse caseload of planning applications, including major housing schemes, mixed-use developments, commercial and infrastructure projects.
• Liaise and negotiate with developers, planning agents, statutory consultees, and internal teams to deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Prepare and present clear, robust reports for Planning Committees and delegated decision-making.
• Mentor junior officers and provide planning advice and technical guidance across the team.
• Prepare appeal documentation and represent the Council as an expert witness at hearings and public inquiries.
• Provide responsive, accurate advice to members, applicants, and the public, ensuring full compliance with planning policy and legislation.

Requirements

• Experience working within a local authority planning department is essential.
• Capable of working independently with a strong understanding of planning regulations and development control.
• Proven experience handling major and complex applications.
• Appeal experience (written reps, hearings, inquiries) is highly desirable.

Contract Details

• Initial Term: 6 months
• Extension / Permanent Options: Available
• Rate: Competitive / Negotiable (DOE)
• Working Arrangement: Hybrid / Remote (varies per authority)

How to Apply

If you're currently open to opportunities or would like to hear more about the councils we're working with in the South, please send over your up-to-date CV.

Referral Bonus

Know someone suitable? We offer a generous referral fee for any successful placement you refer.