Senior/Principal Town Planner in Kennington

Job AdvertAt Bidwells, we're looking for an ambitious Town Planner (Senior or Principal level) to join our growing London team. Working across a diverse portfolio of projects in London and beyond, you'll help shape places, support regeneration, and deliver developments that leave a lasting impact on communities.This role really will give you excellent exposure to some of the cities most impactful schemes, offering unmatched individual experience and growth opportunities. You’ll engage in some of London’s high profile city redevelopments aswell as significant mixed-use, education, residential, and commercial developments.Our Planning team is one of the largest and most respected in the UK, and we're currently experiencing an exciting period of growth. Recent senior hires and new team members in London have further strengthened our already highly successful team, bringing additional expertise, fresh perspectives and valuable client relationships. Their arrival has enhanced our capabilities, expanded our reach and contributed to a growing pipeline of exciting projects and opportunities across the team. This is a fantastic time to join Bidwells, as we continue to invest in our people, strengthen our market-leading reputation and capitalise on an exciting pipeline of work.Our successful candidate will join a dynamic and highly collaborative department where knowledge sharing, teamwork and professional development are genuinely valued. From regular departmental updates and team socials to cross-disciplinary project work, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside experts from across the business, broaden your experience and contribute to some of the UK's most exciting projects. It's an environment that not only supports career progression but also fosters a strong sense of community and belonging.Our planning team collaborates closely with our development, agency, capital markets, rural, and building teams, providing access to major mixed-use projects, science and technology initiatives, and a wide range of other exciting developmentsWhat you'll be doingProviding commercial planning advice to a range of clients and formulating planning strategies to promote sites.Taking new job enquiries and preparing fee proposals.Proactively managing engagement with the local planning authority and other stakeholders.Undertake site assessments and establish development potential.Preparing high-quality planning submissions and progressing applications through the planning system.Research and compiling robust evidence to support the planning case.Prepare design and access statements and other planning documents and reports.Representing the clients' commercial interests throughout the planning process. Written representations and assist in informal hearings and public enquiries.Mentoring junior members of the team.Developing and maintaining current and new client relationships, identifying opportunities for new business for the department and other services.Keeping abreast of relevant legislation, regulations and government guidance.Understanding and managing any potential conflicts of interest.Other ad hoc team support, town planning or admin duties as needed. About you Ideally have a town planning degree or equivalent and full membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute.A good up-to-date and working knowledge of town planning. Ideally this experience will have been gained in either Local Government or in a consultancy environment. Sound knowledge of the planning system together with an interest in a wide range of planning issues.Commercially aware.Good interpersonal communication skills.Good relationship management skills.Ability to manage and prioritise projects on a day-to-day basis.Ability to attract new instructions and clients. What’s in it for youCompetitive Salary: We recognise and reward talent with generous salary and bonus scheme. As a Real Living Wage employer, we’re committed to fair pay that reflects the true cost of living.Comprehensive Benefits: Including up to 8% matched pension, 28 days holiday (+