Senior Development Management Planner in Fleet

Hart District Council is entering an exciting period of change and increasing development pressures. Located in North East Hampshire, Hart is a prosperous and rapidly growing district with high demand for new development. Positioned just beyond the London Green Belt and along the M3 corridor, the area benefits from a vibrant economy, excellent transport links, and a strong sense of community.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward‑thinking and proactive Development Management team, where you will play a key role in shaping high‑quality development across the district. You will work on a varied and challenging caseload, including major and complex applications, helping to deliver sustainable growth and positive outcomes for Hart's communities.

Hart is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK, offering beautiful countryside, excellent schools, and first‑rate leisure opportunities.

Why consider Hart District Council?

• Flexible working hours with up to 2 flexi days per month
• Hybrid working policy - currently around 60 percent homeworking
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Support for CPD and professional subscriptions
• Free staff parking
• Confidential employee advice and support programme
• Promotion of a healthy work life balance
• A genuinely supportive and collaborative team environment

About the role

Reporting to a Development Management Team Leader, you will provide high‑quality planning advice across a wide range of applications, including major developments, complex schemes and pre‑application proposals. You will manage your own caseload and play an important role in delivering an efficient and effective planning service, working to agreed timescales and service objectives. The role also includes mentoring and supporting more junior members of the team.

Key aspects of the role include:

• Managing a caseload of major and complex planning applications and pre‑applications
• Undertaking consultations, site visits and negotiations with applicants and stakeholders
• Preparing reports and recommendations, including for Planning Committee
• Presenting applications at committee and attending meetings as required
• Providing clear and practical advice to applicants, residents and stakeholders
• Supporting appeals work, including written representations, hearings and inquiries
• Negotiating planning obligations and securing high‑quality development outcomes
• Working collaboratively with internal teams and referring breaches where necessary

What you will bring

We are seeking an experienced and motivated planner with a proactive and solution‑focused approach. You will have:

• A degree or postgraduate qualification in Planning or a related discipline
• Significant post‑qualification experience in Development Management
• Strong knowledge of planning legislation, policy and best practice
• Excellent communication, negotiation and report‑writing skills
• Confidence in dealing with stakeholders and presenting at committee
• A positive, customer‑focused approach and commitment to high‑quality service delivery
• Membership of the RTPI or working towards chartership would be advantageous.

You will also be able to demonstrate a commitment to Hart's values - being helpful, approachable, responsive, and taking ownership to ensure the best outcomes for residents and stakeholders.

How to apply

For further information, please apply via this advert or get in touch with Ben Styles at Hays.