Senior/Principal Town Planner

Carrington West; Hereford; On-site; GBP 46,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading planning consultancy in Hereford is seeking a Senior / Principal Town Planner to manage diverse planning projects and provide expert advice. The ideal candidate will have relevant qualifications, experience in the UK planning system, and strong communication skills. This role offers a competitive salary up to £55,000 plus benefits including private healthcare and generous holiday allowance.

Benefits

Private healthcare

35 days’ holiday

Potential discretionary bonus

Enhanced workplace pension

Qualifications

• Experience in planning from a local authority or private sector background.
• Solid understanding of the UK planning system.
• Confidence in leading projects.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed planning statements and strategies.
• Advise clients on statutory consents and planning approaches.
• Coordinate planning application submissions.

Skills

Client advisory skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Education

Postgraduate degree in Town Planning or Urban Design

RTPI membership or equivalent accreditation

Job description

Senior / Principal Town Planner
Location: Herefordshire
Salary: Up to £55,000 per annum + Benefits

About the Role

You’ll be joining a thriving, multi‑disciplinary office in Hereford, working alongside planners, surveyors, archaeologists, engineers and architects. You’ll handle a diverse range of projects from sustainable urban extensions and solar farms to heritage barn conversions. You’ll manage your own caseload, lead and support cross‑disciplinary teams, and develop specialist skills in areas that interest you most.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a Senior or Principal Town Planner, you’ll take ownership of a wide variety of planning projects and provide expert advice to clients and stakeholders.

• Prepare detailed planning statements and planning strategies.
• Advise clients on statutory consents and planning approaches.
• Coordinate planning application submissions and support appeals.
• Lead call‑for‑sites submissions and land promotion opportunities.

You will be in regular contact with clients and local planning authorities, using your initiative, communication and negotiation skills daily.

What You’ll Bring

You will already have experience in planning either from a local authority or private sector background. You’re someone who listens, anticipates client needs and provides proactive, thoughtful advice.

• A postgraduate degree in a relevant subject (e.g. Town Planning, Urban Design).
• RTPI membership or equivalent professional accreditation.
• A solid understanding of the UK planning system.
• Confidence in leading projects and delivering quality advice.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for site visits.

Hours: 37.5 per week, worked flexibly Monday to Friday.

What You’ll Get

You’ll be part of a friendly, collaborative team that values your well‑being and supports your professional growth. You’ll have the freedom to shape your career while working on projects that make a difference.

• A competitive salary reflective of your experience and skills.
• Private healthcare for all employees.
• 35 days’ holiday (including bank holidays, pro rata).
• Potential discretionary bonus.
• Enhanced workplace pension (via NEST).

How to Apply

Please send your CV to Georgia Cookson at Carrington West or call (phone number removed) for a confidential discussion.

Job reference: 62111