Senior Urban Design Officer

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An exciting opportunity has arisen within Guildford Borough Council’s Design and Conservation Team in the role of Senior Urban Design Officer to provide proactive specialist urban design advice and to play a key role in shaping future built development within the Borough.

GBC have adopted two Local Plans over the last 5 years and are just about to embark on a Local Plan update in line with the government’s new plan making process. The existing Local Plan includes a number of very large residential led sites that are still to secure planning permission. Work is also starting on a capacity study in and around the Town Centre that will inform site allocations including guidance on the height and density of development and design coding. To enable the delivery of these ambitions, a highly experienced and qualified Urban Designer is being sought to lead and champion high quality contextual urban design and help shape sustainable development and growth in the Borough.

Working within the Council’s Economy, Planning and Place Service, the role will involve a stimulating balance of casework and strategic policy guidance, and will include:

• Leading in placemaking and urban design across the borough, including newly planned neighbourhoods, housing projects, regeneration areas and town centre projects.
• Providing proactive design advice on major PPAs and planning applications, as well as working with developers and their representatives on all matters relating to urban design and the built form.
• Providing advice on proposals with significant impacts on the public realm and on environmental improvement schemes.
• Evaluating existing guidance and producing up to date guidance and policies.
• Contributing to ongoing policy work.

Applicants should have a recognised degree/post graduate qualification in urban design, planning or architecture as well as proven professional experience within the urban design field role. Excellent verbal, written and illustrative communication, effective time management and a sound knowledge and proactive use of national design policy, guidance and legislation are all essential. You will also have an ability to build a rapport and working relationship with stakeholders, elected members, consultees, colleagues and local communities. The successful candidate will also need to hold a full driving licence and have access to a car.Membership of a recognised professional body (RIBA, RTPI, RICS) would also be desirable, as would experience of working within a local planning authority or similar agency.

The offices are located by the river Wey, close to Guildford Town Centre, and a short walk from the station. The post also benefits from on-site parking as an essential car user.

As a Council we offer many employee benefits including a career average earnings pension scheme, childcare vouchers, generous annual leave and a good work life balance including hybrid working.

If you would like to discuss this opportunity, please contact Louise Blaxall, Principle Design and Conservation Officer - .

The Council may choose to undertake interviews and fill the position during the advertisement period. Should this be the case, the Council will close the advertisement prior to the advertised closing date. Applicants are encouraged to make submissions as early as possible.

Closing Date:Wednesday 6th August 2025or an earlier date if the Council secures a candidate prior to the closing date.

About Guildford

Guildford is a regional centre for leisure, business, education, shopping and culture set in beautiful countryside that includes the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Guildford is a thriving market town and is a principal shopping destination with a vibrant night time economy. The town’s geographical location provides excellent transport links in all directions, London is just 30 minutes away on the train and the town is well-served by frequent bus routes and subsidised Park and Ride facilities. All of this contributes to a quality of life that attracts many people to live, work in and visit Guildford.

We are an equal opportunity and Disability Confident employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need. Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and post-holders to share this commitment. To fulfil this commitment we have robust systems in place for the safe recruitment of staff and volunteers.