At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning policy projects and engage with stakeholders to shape sustainable growth.
- Company: North Northamptonshire Council, dedicated to community development and regeneration.
- Benefits: Professional development support, exposure to strategic projects, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for RTPI progression and involvement in diverse planning initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local communities through innovative planning policies.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning or related field, with relevant planning experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: North Northamptonshire
Service Area: Growth and Regeneration
Reports to: Planning Policy Manager
The Role
We are seeking a Senior Planning Officer to support the delivery of the Council’s Planning Policy function. This role focuses on progressing the Local Plan review and supporting neighbourhood planning, alongside contributing to a range of policy projects that shape sustainable growth across North Northamptonshire. You will lead and support planning policy workstreams, manage evidence-based projects, and help take plans through consultation, examination, and adoption. The role also involves stakeholder engagement, advising on planning matters, and representing the Council where required.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead or support the preparation of planning policy, including Local Plan and Neighbourhood Plan work
- Manage and contribute to evidence base studies to inform policy development
- Support public consultation and stakeholder engagement activities
- Provide policy input on complex planning applications and corporate projects
- Prepare reports, briefings, and appeal statements
- Represent the Council at hearings, inquiries, and public events where required
- Monitor data, analyse trends, and maintain planning policy systems
- Work collaboratively with internal teams, consultants, and external stakeholders
About You
- Degree in Town Planning or related field, eligible for membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute
- Experience in planning policy or relevant planning work
- Good understanding of the English planning system and current legislation
- Strong report writing, research, and analytical skills
- Confident communicator with experience of stakeholder engagement
- Well organised, able to manage multiple projects and deadlines
- Full UK driving licence and ability to undertake regular site visits
What We Offer
- Opportunity to work on strategic planning projects shaping the area
- Exposure to Local Plan review and neighbourhood planning
- Support for professional development and RTPI progression
Senior Planning Officer (policy) – AR employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Officer (policy) – AR
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the planning sector, attend local events, and engage with stakeholders. Building connections can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio of your previous work in planning policy, including reports and projects you've contributed to. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your capabilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Get a friend to do mock interviews with you, focusing on common questions related to planning policy. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Officer (policy) – AR
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in planning policy. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Senior Planning Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects you've worked on!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Senior Planning Officer, you'll be engaging with stakeholders and representing the Council. Use your application to demonstrate your strong communication abilities—whether it's through writing reports or engaging in public consultations, let us know how you shine!
Highlight Your Analytical Skills: We’re looking for someone who can manage evidence-based projects and analyse trends. In your application, include examples of how you've used data to inform policy development or decision-making. This will show us you’ve got the analytical chops we need!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy—just follow the prompts and you’ll be good to go!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and legislation relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with the Local Plan review process and neighbourhood planning specifics in North Northamptonshire. This will show your commitment and understanding of the job.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Scenarios
Think about potential stakeholder engagement scenarios you might face in the role. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully engaged with stakeholders or managed public consultations. This will demonstrate your communication skills and ability to represent the Council effectively.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss how you've used data analysis in previous roles to inform policy development. Bring examples of evidence-based projects you've managed, and be prepared to explain how you monitored trends and maintained planning policy systems.
✨Practice Your Report Writing
Since strong report writing is key for this position, consider preparing a brief report or summary on a relevant planning topic. This will not only help you articulate your thoughts clearly but also give you a tangible example to discuss during the interview.