Senior Compliance Officer - Planning

Senior Compliance Officer – Planning Initial 3‑month contract | Likely extension Local Authority (via Aatom Recruitment) Aatom Recruitment is currently seeking an experienced Senior Compliance Officer – Planning to work on behalf of a local authority on an initial 3‑month contract, with the potential for extension. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced planning enforcement professional to manage complex investigations, lead proactive enforcement work, and engage with residents, Members, and developers. About the Role You will be responsible for investigating breaches of planning control, working closely with applicants, developers, residents, and elected Members to resolve issues effectively and proportionately. You will join a specialist compliance team comprising a Team Leader, two Compliance Officers, and three Tree Officers, contributing to both reactive investigations and proactive enforcement initiatives across the Borough. Key Purpose of the Role * To investigate and resolve alleged breaches of planning control, many of which will be complex and high‑profile * To ensure development is carried out in accordance with approved plans and planning conditions * To take a lead role in proactive enforcement projects and public liaison activities Key Duties and Responsibilities * Liaise with the Team Leader / Development Manager on complex and high‑profile enforcement investigations * Assist with the logging and management of investigation requests * Research planning histories and assess plans, permissions, and documentation to identify breaches * Carry out site visits, surveys, and inspections to gather and record evidence * Interview members of the public, landowners, and occupiers as required and take formal statements * Negotiate compliance with planning controls and seek proportionate solutions * Work closely with Legal Services and other internal departments * Prepare detailed reports recommending appropriate enforcement action * Issue enforcement instructions, serve notices, and prepare supporting documentation and evidence * Prepare and present evidence for appeals, hearings, public inquiries, and court proceedings Person Specification Qualifications & Education * Degree in Planning or relevant professional qualification in Planning Enforcement * Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and its Enforcement Network Experience * Significant experience in planning enforcement within a local authority * Experience interviewing members of the public and taking witness statements * Proven experience of site investigations, monitoring development, and researching planning records * Experience using computerised planning and enforcement systems * Experience working on enforcement cases involving legal proceedings Knowledge, Skills & Abilities * Strong verbal and written communication skills * Excellent record‑keeping and case management skills * Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines * Ability to work with minimal supervision * Strong understanding of planning legislation and government guidance, including PACE and RIPA * Ability to interpret technical plans and drawings Special Requirements * Flexible and innovative approach to work * Access to a vehicle and a full UK driving licence * Ability to undertake site visits across the borough * Availability to attend hearings, public inquiries, committees, and court proceedings Applicants must be eligible to work in the United Kingdom