Planning Officer in Bournemouth

BCP Council is hiring a Planner Officer to support planning decisions, public consultations, and appeals, contributing to the council’s strategic growth and community development. Starting salary for this role is £39,152 (pro rata for part-time colleagues).

Responsibilities

• Appraise and make recommendations and decisions on a wide range of planning applications, including major developments and complex or controversial cases, ensuring compliance with Local and National Planning Policy, regulations, and legislative frameworks.
• Conduct public consultations in line with statutory requirements and Council policy to obtain comments and input from all parties affected by potential developments.
• Provide advice and support to junior staff to ensure the planning service is delivered to required standards.
• Offer planning advice and guidance during the pre‑application process to all customers and interested parties.
• Represent the Council and act as a case officer in planning appeals to defend decisions.
• Negotiate with external agencies and applicants to secure environmental betterment and housing quotas in planning applications.

Qualifications

• Held a degree level qualification.
• Willingness to work towards membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
• Experience working in the development industry on cases of varying complexity or transferable skills to demonstrate relevant experience.
• Knowledge of planning legislation, including the Town and Country Planning Act, National Planning Framework, and planning practice guidance.
• Understanding of the Development Management process.
• Ability to translate complex information, provide professional advice, and present information to a range of stakeholders clearly and precisely.
• Strong project management skills.

Benefits

• Flexible hybrid working arrangements, including remote work consideration.
• Access to a modern office hub in Bournemouth town centre.
• Excellent pension scheme.
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Family support services.
• Well‑being, employee support and counselling services.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment for career development.

Additional Information

• The role is not eligible for visa sponsorship and is only open to candidates with the right to work in the UK.
• BCP Council is committed to providing a fully inclusive recruitment process, ensuring every candidate and colleague has the support and reasonable adjustments needed. The council is a Disability Confident Employer.
• Applicants will be required to undertake a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service check. Please refer to the role profile for further details.