Principal Planning Policy Officer

Role Purpose Support the effective renewal and regeneration of the Council Identification and management of discrete research and policy development / drafting and projects, including management of consultants Planning policy and research tasks that enable the successful preparation, examination and implementation / delivery of the Local Plan and associated Area Action Plans and Supplementary Planning Documents Ensure timely and meaningful engagement of other Council Divisions, elected members, statutory and non-statutory bodies, developers and public stakeholders in the above processesResponsibilities To identify a programme and manage the preparation of evidence base research to support the development of planning policy and to contribute to making data and analyses widely accessible, and approachably presented. To be aware of, and actively seek within the team, the observance of local and statutory procedures and good administrative practice in relation to the preparation and implementation of planning policy. To play a lead role on the development of the Council’s Local Plan, Area Action Plans and other guidance and policies and ensure that they comply with legislative requirements, are consistent with the requirements of the NPPF and London Plan, and support the Council’s overall priorities and objectives. To ensure that public consultation and engagement is undertaken in accordance with the Council’s policies and procedures and legislative requirements and that the principles of equality are incorporated into the process. Liaison with elected Members, members of the public, Resident’s Associations and other interested parties, in connection with planning policy development, and preparation of relevant correspondence. Dealing with general enquiries from elected Members, prospective developers and members of the public, on all planning policy and related matters in person or in writing. To ensure joint working with other teams within the Planning Service, particularly the Development Management, and Regeneration and Design sections, through strategic site delivery and participation in pre-application meetings and major sites meetings Represent the Planning Policy section in negotiations with developers to achieve satisfactory proposals within the context of national, strategic and local policies, standards and guidelines. Prepare and give expert advice, both written and oral, in relation to the work undertaken, whether to Council committees, public meetings or planning inquiries and examinations in public amongst others Represent, as required, the Planning Policy section at meetings with other Services, Groups and Council Departments, Government Departments, statutory bodies, developers, community and other groups, and the general public. Requirements Ability to demonstrate initiative in organizing individual and team workload and establishing priorities for action, and to carry out the necessary work to the required quality within given deadlines in the context of a busy working environment Considerable knowledge and understanding of current Town and Country planning, practice, procedures and legislation, in one or more areas; within planning, enforcement, policy or development control. Ability to operate effectively as part of a wider service structure, to manage conflicting priorities in a pressurised work environment subject to frequently changing circumstances, to acquire new skills and knowledge, and a commitment to learning. Ability to work effectively as part of a planning policy or planning related project team and a willingness to work in a manner that contributes positively to the performance of the team. Ability to supervise and motivate individuals / team of planning officers; to include performance management of the group or project. Ability to understand and discuss complex planning and regeneration issues