At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning for major water infrastructure projects and collaborate with diverse professionals.
- Company: Join Binnies, a pioneering firm dedicated to sustainable infrastructure and community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy private health insurance, gym discounts, mental health support, and more.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive, inclusive culture focused on your growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in water resilience while shaping critical infrastructure for future generations.
- Qualifications: Chartered RTPI Planner with experience in DCO processes and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Binnies is seeking a Chartered RTPI Planner to play a key role in planning and consenting across our high‑profile project portfolio. Our team is currently delivering two of the UK’s most significant water infrastructure projects: the White Horse Reservoir and the Thames to Southern Transfer — both nationally significant developments progressing through the Development Consent Order (DCO) process. Together, these projects form essential components of a major strategic water resource system for the south east, helping to secure long term water resilience for millions of people.
This is a unique chance to be part of a multi‑disciplinary team shaping critical infrastructure that will have lasting regional and environmental impact. White Horse Reservoir will be the initial focus of the role, supported by a range of planning, consenting and other environmental professionals. However, there will be opportunities to work across our diverse portfolio of infrastructure projects in the water and environmental sectors.
The successful applicant will need to be able to work out of the Project Office in central London (weekly) but otherwise can work flexibly between home or our Redhill or other RSK offices if preferred. You will be part of our national Environmental Services team, working alongside specialists in ecology, landscape, EIA and water. In this role, you’ll provide leadership on town and country planning matters and play a key part in strengthening and growing our planning capability across the business.
Responsibilities
- Lead and support the preparation and submission of DCO applications for nationally significant infrastructure projects.
- Assist with the production of planning consents, planning applications and pre‑applications.
- Provide advice on permitted development powers and other consents and permits.
- Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, regulators, and communities.
- Support bids for major projects and other environmental projects to understand the planning requirements.
- Keep our Environmental Services team at the forefront of emerging planning legislation and lead training to share updates and build knowledge across the team.
Essential Requirements
- Chartered through the RTPI
- Thorough understanding of the DCO process including discharge of requirements
- Understanding of the Permitted Development Rights of statutory undertakers
- Extensive experience of the Town and County Planning Application process
- Experience in advising on other consents/permits such as HRA
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills including report writing
- Hold a full UK driving licence
Desirable Requirements
- Experience in preparing documentation and representing clients at appeals, hearings, examinations etc.
- Understanding the regulatory process for water infrastructure, including linkages with water companies business plans, Drainage and Wastewater Management Plans and Water Resources Management Plans, RAPID.
About Us: We develop intelligent solutions using our award‑winning integrated planning and design approach to deliver functional infrastructure and lasting environmental and social legacies. This is backed by a culture that has stayed true since our foundation over 100 years ago. We create new possibilities for humanity through our innovative approach to delivery. Together with our clients, we are always striving to find a smarter way to deliver projects.
From providing low carbon, sustainable and resilient water solutions, flood alleviation and environment services, to connecting people with insights and data. Our business exists to improve the quality of life for our local communities today and for generations to come. Binnies is part of the RSK Group, a leading integrated environmental, engineering, and technical services business providing dynamic, multidisciplinary services to a wide range of sectors.
RSK was founded in 1989 and has grown considerably since then. At RSK, we operate as a group of businesses that work together seamlessly, aiming for growth through diversification. Our strategy helps us build a strong and resilient business, capable of weathering external challenges, while also providing greater value to our clients and more opportunities for our employees.
Since the beginning, our philosophy has remained the same: employ, develop and reward talented individuals. People are crucial to our company, and we recognise that our success hinges on our colleagues' growth. We’re committed to preserving RSK's people‑first culture, promoting innovation, and fostering a supportive and caring environment for collaboration.
At RSK, we want you to be part of our successes and help you reach your career aspirations. We take pride in offering employees fulfilling and challenging careers by promoting ongoing growth and empowering individuals to excel. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We firmly believe that embracing and celebrating the diversity in our workforce makes us a stronger and more innovative company.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, join us as we work together to build a brighter, more equitable, and sustainable future for all.
Benefits
- Private Health Insurance
- Income Protection
- High Street Vouchers
- Life Assurance
- Annual Leave
- Purchase Cycle to Work Scheme
- Discounted Gym Membership
- Mental Health Support
- Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme
Town Planner employer: Binnies
Binnies is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee development and flexibility. As a Graduate Civil Site Engineer, you will benefit from comprehensive training and the chance to work on impactful water projects across the South of England, fostering both professional growth and a sense of purpose in your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Town Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the planning and environmental sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your experience with DCO applications and planning consents in detail during interviews. Bring examples of your past work and how you’ve navigated complex planning processes. This will demonstrate your value to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and open-minded! While the role is based in London, being adaptable about working from home or other offices can make you more appealing to employers. Highlight your willingness to collaborate with teams across different locations.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Make sure to tailor your application to reflect your passion for sustainable infrastructure and how you can contribute to our mission at Binnies.
We think you need these skills to ace Town Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Town Planner. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your qualifications; share specific examples of your past work, especially related to DCO applications and planning consents. We want to see how you've made an impact in previous roles!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team at Binnies!
How to prepare for a job interview at Binnies
✨Know Your DCO Process
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Development Consent Order (DCO) process. Brush up on the key stages and requirements, as this will be crucial for your role. Being able to discuss specific examples from your experience will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it in practice.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Town Planner, you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Prepare to demonstrate your excellent written and verbal communication skills during the interview. Bring along examples of reports you've written or presentations you've delivered to highlight your ability to convey complex information clearly.
✨Understand Permitted Development Rights
Familiarise yourself with the Permitted Development Rights relevant to statutory undertakers. Be ready to discuss how these rights impact planning applications and consents. This knowledge will set you apart and show that you’re proactive about understanding the regulatory landscape.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world situations. Think about past experiences where you've had to navigate challenges in planning or stakeholder engagement. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thought process and decision-making skills effectively.
