Strategic Planning Lead for Major Developments

Local Government South East; Lyndhurst; Hybrid; GBP 53,179 - 56,546; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Cycle to work scheme

LGPS pension

Employee discounts

Learning and development opportunities

Job summary

New Forest District Council in Lyndhurst, Hampshire is seeking an experienced Principal Development Management Officer to lead on major and strategic planning applications. You will manage complex proposals, provide expert advice to elected members and stakeholders, and drive high-quality development outcomes.

The role demands senior DM experience, strong reporting and stakeholder skills, and the ability to guide a team within a supportive organisation.

Qualifications

• Degree or postgraduate qualification in Town Planning.
• Eligibility for membership of the RTPI.
• Substantial Development Management experience, including senior level.
• Detailed knowledge of planning legislation, policy and Development Management practice.
• Excellent report-writing and presentation skills; strong project management, ICT and analytical abilities.
• Ability to make sound professional judgments on complex planning issues.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload of major and strategically important planning applications.
• Leading on complex pre-application discussions and development proposals.
• Exercising delegated authority on planning matters and routine enforcement cases.
• Preparing and presenting reports to Planning Committee.
• Representing the Council at inquiries, hearings, tribunals and public meetings.
• Providing professional guidance and support to colleagues.
• Contributing to the ongoing development, performance and success of the Development Management Service.
• Handling the financial and project management aspects of major developments, including Planning Performance Agreements and significant Section 106 contributions.

Skills

Report writing

Presentation skills

Project management

Stakeholder management

Analytical abilities

Education

Town Planning degree

RTPI eligibility

Job description

New Forest District Council in Lyndhurst, Hampshire is seeking an experienced Principal Development Management Officer to lead on major and strategic planning applications. You will manage complex proposals, provide expert advice to elected members and stakeholders, and drive high-quality development outcomes.

The role demands senior DM experience, strong reporting and stakeholder skills, and the ability to guide a team within a supportive organisation.