Principal Planning Officer

Job Title: Principal Planning Officer Location: Hybrid (approx. 1 day per week office-based + site visits across the county) Contract: 12-month maternity cover Hours: 37 hours per week (Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm) Pay Rate: £42.00 per hour About the Role An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Planning Officer to join our client on a 12-month maternity cover contract. You will play a key role within the Development Management team, delivering high-quality planning decisions, supporting development control activities, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and policy. This is a hybrid role, with an expectation of approximately 1 day per week in the office, alongside regular site visits across the county (own vehicle required). Key Responsibilities * Process and assess planning applications, Listed Building applications, advertisement consents, notifications and consultations * Prepare high-quality committee reports and recommendations * Provide professional planning advice to applicants, agents, developers, and stakeholders * Undertake site visits and attend meetings as required * Negotiate with developers to achieve positive planning outcomes aligned with Council objectives * Assist with appeals, including preparation of statements, proofs of evidence, and attendance at hearings/inquiries * Liaise with internal departments, external agencies, parish/town councils, and elected members * Support mentoring and supervision of junior staff where required * Contribute to service improvement and digital system development Essential Requirements * Degree or Diploma in Town and Country Planning (or related discipline) * Significant experience within Development Management / Development Control * Strong knowledge of planning legislation, procedures, and policy * Excellent negotiation, communication, and report writing skills * Ability to manage workload effectively and meet deadlines under pressure * IT proficient (Microsoft Office systems) * Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for site visits * Basic DBS check required Desirable Requirements * Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) * Experience working with elected members and parish/town councils * Strong legal/procedural planning knowledge * Political awareness and stakeholder management experience Additional Information * Must be willing to undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in line with RTPI requirements * Flexible working required to meet service needs * Role may involve occasional duties outside of core responsibilities consistent with grade