Senior Town Planner

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading residential developer in Chelmsford seeks an experienced Senior Town Planner to lead planning strategies on residential developments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the housebuilding sector and excellent negotiation and communication skills. This role offers opportunities for progression and a competitive salary. Applicants should be MRTPI qualified or working toward it.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Flexible working options

Opportunities for progression

Qualifications

• Proven experience working for a housebuilder or residential developer.
• Strong understanding of the UK planning system and residential development.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning strategy on new and existing residential developments.
• Prepare, manage, and submit planning applications.
• Liaise with local authorities and stakeholders.

Skills

Experience in housebuilding

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Report-writing skills

Project management

Education

MRTPI qualified or working toward

Job description

Senior Town Planner – Housebuilder Experience Essential
Location: Chelmsford
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Employer: Leading UK Housebuilder

I am partnering with a well-established, reputable residential developer to recruit a Senior Town Planner to join their growing team. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced planning professional with a strong background in the housebuilding sector to take on a strategic and influential role within a successful development business.

The Role

As Senior Town Planner, you will play a key role in guiding the business through the planning process from site identification to consent. You’ll work closely with land, design, and technical teams to shape high-quality, deliverable residential schemes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead planning strategy on new and existing residential developments
• Prepare, manage, and submit planning applications
• Liaise and negotiate with local authorities, stakeholders, and consultants
• Provide expert planning advice to internal teams
• Support site appraisals and help identify new land opportunities
• Ensure compliance with relevant planning legislation and policy changes

About You

• Proven experience working for a housebuilder, residential developer, or planning consultancy with housebuilder clients
• Strong understanding of the UK planning system and residential development
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and report‑writing skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently
• MRTPI qualified (or working toward) preferred

Why Apply?

• Join a respected and stable business with a strong project pipeline
• Be part of a collaborative, supportive planning team
• Genuine opportunities for progression
• Competitive salary package and flexible working options

If you’re a driven Senior Town Planner looking for your next challenge in residential development, I’d love to hear from you.

Apply confidentially today or contact me directly for an informal discussion.