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- Tasks: Shape the future of Central Bedfordshire through innovative planning and policy development.
- Company: Join Central Bedfordshire Council, a key player in national growth and investment.
- Benefits: Professional development, training opportunities, and a chance to influence local communities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting projects like the new Local Plan and major infrastructure schemes.
- Qualifications: Membership or working towards RTPI membership and experience in planning.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is an exciting time to join Central Bedfordshire Council. As one of the largest Unitary Authorities in the country, our unique geographical location places us right at the heart of national conversations about growth and investment. With the government’s renewed focus on the Oxford to Cambridge Corridor, major infrastructure schemes such as East-West Rail, the arrival of Universal Studios, and the prospect of a New Town at Tempsford, the opportunities for shaping the area’s future have never been greater.
We are currently recruiting for two roles within our Strategic Growth team:
- Planning Officer (permanent)
- Principal Planning Officer (Secondment – Maternity Cover, up to 12 months from April 2026)
Both roles will play a key part in preparing and delivering the new Local Plan—set to be one of the first under the new Planning Regulations. You’ll be involved from the earliest stages right through to examination and adoption, helping to shape the spatial future of Central Bedfordshire.
About the Role
Working within Strategic Growth, you’ll contribute to delivering the Council’s statutory and non-statutory planning functions, developing evidence-based policies, and supporting or leading projects such as the Strategic Land Availability Assessment (SLAA) and Site Assessment following our Call for Sites. You’ll work across the full range of planning disciplines, engaging with councillors, developers, partners and the community to provide specialist support and guidance. Whether supporting or leading key projects, you’ll play a central role in helping us achieve our ambitious growth priorities.
You’ll bring:
- Membership (or working towards membership) of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)
- Experience in forward planning/policy within a local authority or similar environment
- Excellent communication skills, sound political understanding, and a commitment to evidence-based decision making
You’ll be comfortable working under pressure, managing multiple priorities and deadlines, and influencing a broad range of stakeholders. At Central Bedfordshire Council, we’re committed to your professional growth. As an RTPI Learning Partner, we provide outstanding opportunities for training, development and career progression. With the new Local Plan and major regional projects ahead, now is the perfect time to join and make your mark on an area at the forefront of sustainable, strategic growth.
Opportunities within our Strategic Growth Team employer: Central Bedfordshire Council
Contact Detail:
Central Bedfordshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Opportunities within our Strategic Growth Team
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend local planning events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at Central Bedfordshire Council through LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest developments in the Oxford to Cambridge Corridor. Show us you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the area’s growth and investment opportunities. Bring your ideas to the table – we love innovative thinkers!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since you’ll be engaging with councillors, developers, and the community, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. Try mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence and refine your pitch.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our Strategic Growth team and making a difference in Central Bedfordshire.
We think you need these skills to ace Opportunities within our Strategic Growth Team
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the roles in our Strategic Growth Team. Highlight your experience in forward planning and policy, and show how your skills align with our ambitious growth priorities.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for these roles, don’t forget to demonstrate your ability to engage with various stakeholders. Use examples from your past experiences where you’ve successfully influenced or collaborated with others.
Highlight Your RTPI Membership: If you're a member of the Royal Town Planning Institute or working towards it, make sure to mention this prominently. It shows your commitment to the profession and aligns perfectly with what we’re looking for in candidates.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll find all the details you need to submit your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Central Bedfordshire Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest planning regulations and policies, especially those related to the Oxford to Cambridge Corridor. Brush up on Central Bedfordshire's current projects and how they align with national growth strategies. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to discuss how you would engage with various stakeholders, from councillors to community members. Think about examples from your past experience where you successfully influenced or collaborated with different groups. This will highlight your communication skills and political understanding.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to tackle hypothetical scenarios related to planning challenges. Think about how you would approach issues like site assessments or policy development. Demonstrating your analytical thinking and evidence-based decision-making will set you apart.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the role and the council’s future projects. Inquire about the new Local Plan or how the council plans to manage the upcoming infrastructure changes. This shows you’re not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to the council’s vision.