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- Tasks: Lead service improvement projects and manage planning applications for the Council.
- Company: Join a passionate team dedicated to making Luton a better place for all residents.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive work environment with great perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a vision to eliminate poverty in Luton while developing your career in planning.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree or equivalent experience in Town Planning is essential.
- Other info: This role does not offer sponsorship; ideal for those ready to make an impact.
The predicted salary is between 44428 - 47420 £ per year.
Salary: £44,428 - £47,420 a year plus £3,203 car benefit and £4,000 market supplement a year
Hours per week: 37
Contract type: Permanent
We have an exciting yet vital opportunity within our Planning division, where you’ll support the work of Development Management with a focus on service improvement and deputise for the Team Manager (Strategic Applications) and Team Manager (Minor Applications) in leading a team in Development Management. You will primarily be responsible for managing the throughput of planning applications and representing the Council at Appeals under the direction of the Head of Planning, ensuring effective service provision and compliance with Council policies and practices. This will include having delegated authority to determine minor applications and instigate enforcement action. You will take the lead on service improvement projects and initiatives for the Development Management Service, that seeks to enhance efficiencies and cost savings and strives to introduce processes that build greater relationships, networking and closer working with internal and external stakeholders.
Please note this role does not attract sponsorship.
To be successful in this role you will have in-depth experience of Development Management work within a statutory town planning framework including representing the Local Planning Authority at Public Inquiries. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are a must for this role as you will be required to communicate with staff at all levels, as well as influencing and negotiating with developers, stakeholders, senior managers and other agencies in order to meet the council’s objectives. You’ll have the ability to write and present clear and complex reports and policy documents, policies, project plans, business cases dealing with complex planning issues and present them at public meetings. It is important that you have demonstrable command of the principles and practices of Town Planning and of the Enforcement provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act. It is vital that you have a Master’s Degree, Chartered Town Planner Apprenticeship or Diploma in Town and Country Planning OR equivalent qualification OR equivalent experience.
Our ambitious Luton 2040 Vision – that no-one in Luton will have to live in poverty – is at the heart of everything we do. We recognise that our people are remarkable, talented, committed and passionate about serving our residents. The people of Luton depend heavily on this council – and that means our workforce! Are you ready to realise the remarkable and help us deliver our vision?
We offer a range of excellent staff benefits which include:
- From 25 to 32 days’ annual leave: linked to length of service and grade
- Buying annual leave scheme: buy up to 20 days additional annual leave
- Career Pathways: step up in your career or move into a specialist area
- Pension scheme: with generous employer contributions of up to 20.2 per cent (at July 2023) and 3x salary death in service grant
- Generous relocation package: up to £8,000 (subject to eligibility)
- Employee Assistance Programme: a free, 24/7 confidential counselling and wellbeing support service available to all employees, their partner or spouse and dependent children over 16 still living at home
- Work/life balance: flexible working options including working from home where possible. We welcome requests for flexible working arrangements including part-time hours and alternative working patterns
- Training and support: unlimited access to development courses, mentoring and support and clear career pathways
- Staff offers: includes discounts on your MOT, gym and fitness, restaurants and salons
- Arriva Travel Club: great value savings on local bus travel
Principal Planner - Service Improvement and Projects employer: Luton Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Luton Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planner - Service Improvement and Projects
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Luton 2040 Vision and how it aligns with the role of Principal Planner. Understanding the council's objectives will help you demonstrate your commitment to their goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the town planning field, especially those who have experience with Development Management. Engaging with current or former employees can provide insights into the council's culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of service improvement projects you've led in the past. Highlighting your ability to enhance efficiencies and build relationships will be crucial in showcasing your fit for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your knowledge of the Town and Country Planning Act and recent changes in legislation. Being well-versed in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also impress the interview panel with your expertise.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner - Service Improvement and Projects
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Principal Planner position. Make sure you understand the responsibilities, required qualifications, and the skills needed to excel in this role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in Development Management and any leadership roles you've held. Emphasise your communication skills and ability to manage complex planning issues.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for service improvement and your understanding of the council's objectives. Use specific examples from your past experience to demonstrate how you meet the requirements of the role.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Anticipate questions related to your experience with public inquiries and stakeholder engagement. Be ready to discuss how you would approach service improvement projects and your strategies for effective communication.
How to prepare for a job interview at Luton Borough Council
✨Know Your Planning Framework
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the statutory town planning framework. Brush up on the principles and practices of Town Planning, as well as the Enforcement provisions of the Town and Country Planning Act, to demonstrate your expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to discuss your excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Think of examples where you've successfully influenced or negotiated with stakeholders, developers, or senior managers, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Complex Reporting
Be ready to talk about your experience in writing and presenting complex reports and policy documents. Consider bringing a sample of your work or discussing a specific project where your reporting made a significant impact.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Since you'll be deputising for team managers, highlight any leadership experience you have. Discuss how you've led teams or projects in the past, focusing on service improvement initiatives and how you managed relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
