At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape Halton's future by developing and implementing planning policies.
- Company: Join Halton Borough Council's collaborative Planning Policy team.
- Benefits: Make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and mentoring junior colleagues.
- Why this job: Play a key role in strategic planning that influences the borough's growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning policy, Local Plan development, and strong communication skills.
Halton Borough Council's Planning Policy team is looking for an experienced and motivated Principal Planning Policy Officer to join its small and collaborative team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future development of Halton. You will be responsible for helping to maintain the current Delivery and Allocations Local Plan (DALP) while contributing to the development of a new revised Local Plan. Working within the context of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Planning Practice Guidance (PPG), you will help ensure that Halton's planning policies support the Council's aspirations for growth across the borough, whilst also contributing to the wider ambitions of the Liverpool City Region.
You will bring substantial experience in planning policy and Local Plan preparation, together with the ability to provide professional advice, lead projects and support the development of more junior members of the team.
Key Responsibilities
As Principal Planning Policy Officer, you will:
- Act as a principal adviser to the Council on a range of planning policy matters, developing and implementing work programmes aligned with service objectives.
- Take day-to-day responsibility for supervising Planning Policy and Assistant Planning Policy Officers, providing advice, guidance and on-the-job support.
- Allocate and oversee work in agreement with the Lead Planning Policy Officer and Service Manager for Planning Policy and Transport Strategy.
- Lead multidisciplinary and multi-agency project teams to deliver agreed work programmes.
- Contribute to the preparation, review and development of Local Plans, including undertaking site assessments.
- Apply your knowledge of the NPPF and PPG to the development and monitoring of Local Plans.
- Undertake or commission research and evidence gathering to support policy and strategy development.
- Consult and engage with Council departments, partners, residents, service users and other stakeholders.
- Develop and promote strategies, policies, procedures and action plans.
- Establish systems to monitor the progress and effectiveness of policies and strategies.
- Keep up to date with current and forthcoming legislation, guidance and policy developments, assessing their implications for Halton.
- Develop effective partnership working and support the development and management of strategic partnerships where required.
- Identify resource implications associated with policy implementation and contribute to budget preparation, funding bids and partnership funding processes.
- Contribute to corporate policies and processes, including business continuity, risk assessments, equality impact assessments and service plans.
- Prepare and present reports to senior managers, elected members and partners.
- Represent the Council at external meetings, partnerships and other relevant forums.
- Promote equality, diversity and inclusion across the Council and wider community.
About You
We are looking for an experienced planning professional with substantial experience in planning policy and Local Plan development. You will ideally have:
- An RTPI-accredited Planning Degree.
- A Master's Degree in Town and Country Planning or equivalent.
- MRTPI membership.
- Significant experience working in planning policy.
- Experience of Local Plan development from conception through to adoption.
- Experience of planning policy development and preparation of evidence-based policies.
- Experience of Local Plan site assessments.
- Strong working knowledge of the NPPF and Planning Practice Guidance (PPG).
- Strong research, analytical and report-writing skills.
- The ability to interpret complex information and communicate it clearly to a range of audiences.
- Experience of community engagement and consultation.
- Strong project management and organisational skills.
- The ability to manage your own workload and work effectively to deadlines.
- Experience of supporting, mentoring or supervising junior colleagues.
- Excellent communication and partnership-working skills.
- A commitment to maintaining your professional knowledge and supporting the development of others.
A full driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential, as the role involves regular travel across the borough and, on occasion, further afield. Reasonable adjustments will be considered where appropriate in accordance with the Equality Act.
Why Join Halton Borough Council?
This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the future growth and development of Halton, working on strategic planning policy that will shape the borough for years to come. You will join a supportive and collaborative Planning Policy team where your expertise will be valued, whilst having the opportunity to work on significant Local Plan and policy development projects.
Principal Policy Officer in Widnes employer: Connect2Halton
Connect2Halton is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its employees, offering a supportive work culture where social workers can thrive. With a focus on professional development and collaboration, staff are encouraged to enhance their skills while making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people transitioning to independence. Located within Halton Borough Council, employees benefit from a strong community ethos and access to various resources that empower them to excel in their roles.
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Policy Officer in Widnes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Connect2Halton
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Before your interview with Connect2Halton, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
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