3 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

To undertake the Council’s responsibilities for the control of development under the Town and Country Planning Acts and related legislation within the Borough. The postholder will assess planning applications and breaches of planning control, provide professional planning advice, and contribute to the effective delivery of development management services while supporting the wider planning team.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess, appraise, and determine planning applications, planning appeals, and breaches of planning control in accordance with planning legislation, policy, and material considerations.
• Prepare reports and recommendations for delegated decisions and Planning Committee determinations.
• Advise Planning Committee members and present cases at committee meetings as required.
• Represent the Council at appeals, hearings, public inquiries, and court proceedings where necessary.
• Negotiate with applicants, agents, developers, and stakeholders to achieve positive planning outcomes and resolve planning issues.
• Maintain a high standard of decision-making and contribute to achieving service performance targets, with a strong emphasis on pre-application engagement.
• Investigate alleged breaches of planning control and undertake site visits, including occasional visits outside normal working hours.
• Assist with the validation of planning applications where required.
• Support and mentor junior staff and provide management support to the Team Leader when necessary.
• Contribute to continuous service improvement within Development Management.
• Ensure compliance with Council policies, including Equal Opportunities, Health & Safety, IT Security, and Emergency Planning requirements.
• Undertake training, professional development, and any other duties appropriate to the grade of the post.