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Planning Officer / Senior Planning Officer
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Planning Officer / Senior Planning Officer
Planning Officer or Senior Planning Officer – Fixed Term (18 Months) – Reading Borough Council
Type: Fixed Term | Posting Date: 2 days ago | Closing Date: 19 July 2026 Location: Reading Hours: 37 per week | Salary:
- Planning Officer: £28,142 – £36,363
- Senior Planning Officer: £36,363 – £47,181
About the Role
We’re seeking an ambitious Planning Officer or Senior Planning Officer to make a lasting impact on our communities by delivering sustainable, high-quality development across Reading Borough.
This is a temporary position in a supportive, collaborative, and dynamic setting, offering a diverse caseload and fantastic growth opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
As part of our Planning Team, your key tasks will include:
- Managing a varied caseload, from minor household applications to straightforward major developments.
- Assessing planning applications, conducting site visits, and providing agile decision-making.
- Preparing clear, well-justified delegated committee reports with high-quality recommendations.
- Offering pre-application advice, negotiating with developers, and ensuring high-quality development outcomes.
- Dealing with planning appeal responses and representing the Council when necessary.
- Handling customer inquiries through the Council’s duty planning service.
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For Senior Planning Officers
In addition, you’ll have opportunities to:
- Oversee more complex and politically sensitive applications.
- Present at Planning Committee meetings.
- Mentor junior staff, fostering professional development.
- Lead negotiations on larger schemes and contribute to broader service improvements.
About You
We’re looking for passionate planners with a commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable communities and providing excellent customer service.
Essential Requirements
- A recognised degree or professional qualification in Planning (or related field), or working towards one.
- RTPI membership eligibility.
- Strong analytical, written, and communication skills.
- The ability to prioritise efficiently and work independently or collaboratively.
- A commitment to outstanding customer service.
For Senior Planning Officer Applicants
- Significant Development Management experience.
- Confidence to manage complex applications without close supervision.
Why Apply?
We operate on Team Reading principles: Collaboration, efficiency, ambition, and impact. Our culture encourages innovation, talent development, and a truly supportive environment.
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Flexibility & Benefits
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- Flexible and hybrid working options to align with your needs.
- Generous holiday entitlement (25 days per year + bank holidays, progressing to 30 days at 5 years and 33 after 10 years).
- Pension scheme benefits under the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Life Assurance (up to three times your annual salary for eligible members).
- Ofsted-rated nursery (Kennet Day Nursery) at the Civic Offices.
- Season Ticket Loan for rail/bus transport expenses.
- Car lease salary sacrifice scheme (green, new vehicles with insurance/tax included).
Plus: discounts on arts and culture (via engage Berkshire), free gym membership, paid time off for volunteer work, and learning development opportunities.
How to Apply
For further details or questions, contact: Steve Vigar – Planning Applications Team Leader Email: stephen.vigar@reading.gov.uk
Interviews will be held at Reading Civic Centre. The process includes an in-person interview and a written test based on the job description and person specification.
Deadline: Sunday 19 July 2026 Apply via: reabcli.webitrent.com
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