At Bath & North East Somerset Council we have one overriding purpose – to improve people’s lives.
About the Team
Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) Council is seeking to recruit a Principal Planning Officer within the Planning Policy Team on a fixed term contract (twenty-four months). This is a key post within the Planning Policy Team and we are seeking applications from the very best candidates.
B&NES is a highly successful and diverse area containing international and national heritage and environmental assets, as well as an extensive area of Green Belt. It is a hugely attractive place to work, live and visit.
Given the government’s growth agenda and important economic role as part of the wider West of England sub-region the area is subject to significant development pressure that needs to be carefully planned for and managed. B&NES is part of the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA) area. WECA has commenced work on preparing a Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) to plan strategically for significant longer-term growth. B&NES will be closely involved in preparing the SDS and will also need to prepare a new-style Local Plan.
We are seeking to recruit a highly organised professional with significant strategic planning experience to co‑coordinate B&NES input into the preparation of the WECA SDS. The successful candidate will play a vital role in representing B&NES in discussions and working with the WECA and our neighbouring local authorities. You will need to be highly motivated, a strong communicator and with a proven track record of collaborating with stakeholders and achieving key milestones.
About the Role
The post provides an opportunity to work with colleagues across the sub‑region within a high performing B&NES Planning Policy team and to further develop your career in a supportive working environment.
To ensure that development proposals are in line with legislation, regulations, national and local planning and Council policies, so that the Council can deliver on its objectives across Development Management, Plan Making and Planning Enforcement disciplines. The role holder, as a technical leader, will provide specialist advice and information to the Council on all issues relating to Plan Making and the production of a sound Development Plan.
About You
The successful candidate needs to be a highly capable, proactive and qualified professional, with significant experience of project managing and taking a lead role in strategic planning.
The Principal Officer Role Profile attached to this advert also covers the equivalent role in Development Management – please note it is the Policy related elements of the Role Profile that apply to this post.
Interview date: 10/08/2026
No Agencies Please.
*Please note, BANES Council operates a policy of prior consideration for roles for any individual on the Council’s at‑risk register (redeployee). This means should a redeployee express an interest in this role, providing they meet the essential criteria for the role they will be considered ahead of external applicants.
Please note: that this advert may close earlier than the stated closing date due to high demand. We advise all interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.
About Bath and North East Somerset Council.
Working at Bath and North East Somerset provides an opportunity to contribute to your community and make a positive impact on the lives of residents. Our values shape how we work to deliver public services, and how we communicate with the residents we serve. We care about the best outcomes for local people, through our public services.
Why Bath and North East Somerset Council?
We offer a wide range of benefits, to ensure that you are paid fairly for your work, have the flexibility to enjoy a great work/life balance, and have the support you need. Go to https://jobsandcareers.bathnes.gov.uk/why-work-us/our-benefits
At Bath and North East Somerset Council we have one overriding purpose – to improve peoples lives. Find out more about our values at https://jobsandcareers.bathnes.gov.uk/why-work-us/our-values
We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us. Find out more on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at https://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/equality-and-diversity
We are a Disability Confident Employer – find out more at https://shorturl.at/ajrsW
The Council is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Safeguarding Statement:
The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable groups and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. As part of this commitment anyone working in a post with children or vulnerable groups will be expected to undertake an Enhanced DBS check with/without barred list checks.
Principal Planning Officer (Policy) in Keynsham employer: Bath and North East Somerset Council
Bath College is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional development of its staff. With a generous holiday entitlement, flexible working options, and a commitment to safeguarding, employees enjoy a supportive work culture that fosters growth and work-life balance. The College's location in Bath offers a vibrant community and access to various employee benefits, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
Bath and North East Somerset Council Recruitment Team
