Principal Planning Officer – Development Management

Principal Planning Officer – Development Management (Major Applications/PPA) South East England | Remote (with site visits) | 6-Month Rolling Contract | Inside IR35 We are currently supporting a Local Authority in the South East of England seeking an experienced Principal Planning Officer to provide specialist support within their Development Management function, with a particular focus on strategic major applications and Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs). This role requires an individual who can hit the ground running, confidently managing a complex caseload of large-scale applications while operating within a fast-paced local authority environment. Key Responsibilities * Lead on the assessment and determination of major planning applications, including complex and strategic schemes * Manage multiple major applications concurrently, ensuring delivery within statutory timeframes and PPA milestones * Undertake site inspections and provide professional planning advice informed by site context * Prepare and present high-quality officer reports, recommendations, and planning justifications * Engage with key stakeholders including developers, consultants, elected members, and statutory consultees * Support and advise on Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs), ensuring effective programme management and delivery * Contribute to appeals, committees, and hearings where required Candidate Requirements * Minimum 7+ years’ experience within Development Management * Proven track record of managing large-scale major planning applications within a Local Authority setting * Strong working knowledge of UK planning legislation, policy frameworks, and decision-making processes * Experience operating within PPA frameworks and managing complex stakeholder relationships * Ability to manage a high-volume, complex caseload autonomously * RTPI accredited (or working towards) – desirable Working Arrangements * £55–£62 per hour (Inside IR35) * 6-month rolling contract * Predominantly remote working, with occasional site visits as required * Immediate start available