Senior/Principal Planning Officer (Development Management)

Neway International Ltd; Droitwich Spa, Elmbridge; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority planning service is seeking a Senior/Principal Planning Officer for Elmbridge Borough Council. You will manage complex planning applications, appeals, and enforcement matters. The ideal candidate has a degree in Town & Country Planning and significant Development Management experience. This role requires strong organizational and communication skills, with a commitment to excellent customer service. The position offers a hybrid work setup, full-time hours, and a competitive pay rate of £45–£59.13 per hour.

Qualifications

• Eligibility for RTPI membership is desirable.
• Experience representing a local authority at hearings.
• Flexibility to attend evening Committee meetings when needed.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and report on planning applications.
• Advise applicants, developers, and stakeholders.
• Process appeals and represent the Council at hearings.
• Investigate unauthorized activities and support enforcement.
• Attend Sub-Committee meetings and present reports.
• Supervise Planning Officers and support performance management.
• Deliver excellent customer care and uphold conduct standards.
• Contribute to organisational change and improvement.

Skills

Significant experience in Development Management

Excellent communication skills

Strong organisational skills

Knowledge of planning legislation

Ability to manage and motivate a team

Education

Degree in Town & Country Planning or equivalent

Job description

Neway International are seeking a Senior/Principal Planning Officer (Development Management) to join our client Elmbridge Borough Council.

Location: Civic Centre, High Street, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9SD

Hours: 36 per week (including some out-of-hours work)

Start Date: 5 January 2026

Duration: 12 Weeks (Temporary, may extend up to a year)

Pay Rates: PAYE £45.00 per hour / Limited/Umbrella £59.13 per hour

Work Pattern: Full-time, hybrid (2 days per week in office preferred: Thursday and Monday or Tuesday)

About the Client

Elmbridge Borough Council is one of the busiest local planning authorities in the country, setting high standards for the delivery of planning decisions within Government targets. With land values that rival London and a population of 135,000, Elmbridge offers a challenging and rewarding environment for planning professionals. The Council is committed to excellent customer service, equality of opportunity, and continuous professional development.

The Role

As Senior/Principal Planning Officer, you will play a key role in shaping Elmbridge through the management of complex planning applications, appeals, and enforcement matters. You will support the Development Management team, advise applicants and developers, and contribute to high-quality planning outcomes that reflect the Council’s vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate and report on planning applications, including major and controversial proposals.
• Advise applicants, developers, architects, and other stakeholders on development management matters.
• Process appeals and represent the Council at hearings and inquiries.
• Investigate allegations of unauthorised activities and support enforcement actions.
• Attend Sub-Committee meetings, presenting reports and advising on planning matters.
• Supervise Planning Officers within the team, supporting performance management and workload monitoring.
• Deliver excellent customer care and uphold the Council’s standards of conduct.
• Contribute to organisational change and continuous improvement in planning services.
• For Principal-level appointments: sign delegated planning decisions on behalf of the Strategic Director.

Candidate Requirements

• Degree in Town & Country Planning or equivalent, with eligibility for RTPI membership (desirable).
• Significant experience in Development Management, including major applications.
• Experience representing a local authority at hearings or inquiries.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage workload under pressure.
• Knowledge of local government procedures, planning legislation, and Government guidance.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to manage and motivate a professional team.
• Commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
• Full driving licence and access to own vehicle.
• Flexibility to attend evening Committee meetings as required.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a high-pressure environment.
• Own PC/laptop required for home working.

This is an excellent opportunity to join Elmbridge Borough Council’s Planning and Environmental Health team, working on a diverse range of applications and contributing to the future of one of Surrey’s most dynamic boroughs.