At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex planning applications and support planning committees in a beautiful location.
- Company: Join Westmorland and Furness Council, a new unitary council in stunning Cumbria.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pension, enhanced leave, and various perks.
- Other info: Work in a friendly community with excellent career development prospects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a picturesque area with rich outdoor opportunities.
- Qualifications: Qualified planner with experience in managing teams and complex cases.
The predicted salary is between 47181 - 48226 £ per year.
Would you like to live and work in one of the most beautiful parts of the country? Westmorland and Furness Council is a new unitary Council combining Barrow-in-Furness, Eden and South Lakeland districts. The new Council planning area is adjacent to two national parks, including the stunning Lake District National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as western parts of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The national parks offer a rich tapestry of lakes, mountains and countryside, which offer extensive outdoor opportunities, whilst the towns and villages brim with local character. With friendly communities, low crime rate, cultural attractions and stunning locations, Westmorland and Furness Council makes an attractive proposition for one and all.
Who we are looking for… Westmorland and Furness Council is seeking to recruit a Principal Planning Officer (Development Management). You will be responsible for signing off delegated reports, attending and supporting planning committees as well as managing a case load of more complex planning applications. You will need experience of dealing with appeals and public inquiries. You will also need to have strong experience in successfully leading and motivating teams of planning professionals and will need to be a qualified planner and Chartered member of the RTPI. As a Principal Planning Officer, you will be responsible for advising on the more complex planning cases and working with the Area Manager to ensure the efficient and effective management of the planning process. The successful candidate will need to possess a relevant degree or qualification and have previous relevant experience. They will require good IT skills and have the ability to research case law and good practice in the further development of this area of work.
What can we offer you! Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site.
If you have any queries about this role or would like an informal chat about this opportunity, then please contact Nick Howard, Senior Development Manager, via email Nick.Howard@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk to arrange an informal conversation.
Application and Interview information:
- Closing date: 14/06/2026
- Company: Westmorland and Furness Council
- Salary: £47,181- £48,226
- Location: Cumbria / Countywide, Cumbria
- Sector: Corporate Services
- Sector: Administration
- Sector: Regeneration and Local Economies
- Job Role: Officer
Principal Planning Officer – WMF2965e employer: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
Westmorland and Furness Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture in one of the UK's most picturesque regions. With a focus on employee growth, competitive benefits including a generous pension scheme and enhanced annual leave, and the opportunity to engage with vibrant local communities, this role as Principal Planning Officer promises a fulfilling career amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Contact Details:
Kirklees Metropolitan Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer – WMF2965e
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the planning sector, especially those connected to Westmorland and Furness Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on local planning policies and recent developments in the area. Show us you’re not just a qualified planner but someone who’s genuinely interested in the community and its future!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the perks of working with us at Westmorland and Furness Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer – WMF2965e
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Principal Planning Officer. We want to see how your skills and background fit into our vision at Westmorland and Furness Council.
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t hold back on sharing your relevant experience, especially in dealing with complex planning applications and leading teams. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you’ve achieved!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our council there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirklees Metropolitan Council
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your planning knowledge, especially around development management and case law. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities in the Westmorland and Furness area, including the national parks. This will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll need to lead and motivate teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, particularly in complex planning scenarios. Be ready to discuss your approach to team dynamics and how you handle challenges.
✨Prepare for Real-Life Scenarios
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific planning applications or public inquiries. Think through some complex cases you've dealt with before and be prepared to explain your thought process and decision-making. This will demonstrate your practical experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Engage with the Community Aspect
Westmorland and Furness Council values community engagement. Be ready to discuss how you would involve local communities in the planning process. Show that you understand the importance of local character and how it influences planning decisions in the area.
