Senior Planning Officer

Fox Morris Group Ltd; Willenhall; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority recruitment agency is seeking a Senior Planning Officer for hybrid/remote work within several councils. This role involves managing a diverse caseload of planning applications and requires Local Authority experience, with strong negotiations and report-writing skills. Competitive pay rates and opportunities for contract extensions or permanent positions are available.

Benefits

Referral bonus for successful introductions

Qualifications

• Experience within a planning team at a Local Authority is essential.
• Proven ability to manage a complex caseload with minimal supervision.
• High level of report-writing and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for planning applications including major developments.
• Negotiate with developers, agents, and draft reports for committees.
• Support and mentor junior officers in planning processes.
• Prepare appeal statements and act as an expert witness.
• Respond to enquiries from members, developers, and the public.

Skills

Local Authority experience

Report-writing skills

Negotiation skills

Managing complex caseloads

Job description

Overview

Senior Planning Officer – North West Councils – Hybrid / Remote Working. I am currently representing a number of Local Authorities across the North West who are offering initial temporary contracts (6 months) with potential for extension or permanent employment for the right candidate. Rates are negotiable depending on experience.

Locations

• Greater Manchester
• Lancashire
• Merseyside
• Cheshire
• Cumbria

Hybrid / Remote working arrangements available depending on the council.

Key Accountabilities

• Take responsibility for a varied and complex caseload of planning applications, including major developments (residential, commercial, mixed-use, regeneration schemes).
• Negotiate effectively with developers, agents, and internal stakeholders, and draft reports for Planning Committee and delegated decisions.
• Provide support and mentorship to junior officers, ensuring planning processes are delivered efficiently and in line with policy and legislation.
• Prepare and submit appeal statements, and act as an expert witness at hearings and public inquiries.
• Respond promptly and professionally to enquiries from members, developers, and the public, providing accurate advice in line with current planning law, policies, and local procedures.

Requirements

• Local Authority experience within a planning team is essential.
• Proven ability to manage a complex caseload with minimal supervision.
• Strong report-writing and negotiation skills.
• Experience with major applications and appeals is highly desirable.

Contract Details

• Initial Term: 6 months
• Extension/Permanent Opportunities: Available
• Rate: Competitive / Negotiable (DOE)
• Working Pattern: Hybrid / Remote (flexible based on council)

How to Apply

If you're open to new opportunities or would like more information, please send your up-to-date CV today.

Referral Bonus: Know someone who might be a good fit? We offer a generous referral fee for successful introductions.

Looking forward to hearing from you