At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of planners and manage complex planning applications in a stunning location.
- Company: Join Westmorland and Furness Council, a new unitary council in beautiful Cumbria.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pension, enhanced leave, and exclusive perks.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant community surrounded by national parks and outdoor adventures.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a picturesque area while advancing your planning career.
- Qualifications: Qualified planner with leadership skills and experience in development management.
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 Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as western parts of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The national parks offer lakes, mountains and countryside with extensive outdoor opportunities, while towns and villages brim with local character. Westmorland and Furness Council makes an attractive proposition for one and all.
Responsibilities
- The Principal Planning Officer (Development Management) will manage a team of planners in the Development Management area.
- They will sign off delegated reports, attend and support planning committees, and manage a caseload of complex planning applications.
- Experience with appeals and public inquiries is required.
- Strong leadership and motivation of planning professionals, and being a qualified planner and Chartered member of the RTPI is required.
- They will advise on more complex planning cases and work with the Area Manager to ensure efficient and effective management of the planning process.
Qualifications
- A relevant degree or qualification and previous relevant experience.
- Good IT skills and ability to research case law and best practice for development in this area of work.
Benefits
- Benefits include a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other perks and discounts.
For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council, please visit our Careers site.
Application information
- Closing date: 28 June 2026
- Company: Westmorland and Furness Council
- Salary: £47,181 – £48,226
- Location: Cumbria / Various, Cumbria
- Sector: Corporate Services, Administration, Communications
- Job Role: Officer, Planner
Principal Planning Officer – WMF2966e employer: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
Westmorland and Furness Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in the stunning landscapes of Cumbria, adjacent to two national parks. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive benefits including a generous pension scheme and enhanced annual leave, and a supportive work culture that values leadership and professional growth, this role as Principal Planning Officer promises a rewarding career in a vibrant community.
Contact Details:
Kirklees Metropolitan Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer – WMF2966e
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Westmorland and Furness Council on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the team culture and what they really value in a Principal Planning Officer.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of local planning policies and recent developments in the area. We want to see you shine with your expertise, so show us you’re not just a planner but a passionate advocate for the community!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you’ve motivated a team or handled complex cases. We love to see how you can inspire others while managing the planning process effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team at Westmorland and Furness Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer – WMF2966e
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 Leadership Skills:As a Principal Planning Officer, strong leadership is key. Use your application to demonstrate your past experiences in managing teams and motivating others. We love to see examples of how you've successfully led projects or initiatives.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is crucial. We appreciate straightforward language that gets to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to planning, and make sure your passion for the role shines through!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you can find more info about life at Westmorland and Furness Council there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirklees Metropolitan Council
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and case law relevant to the role. Being able to discuss specific examples of complex planning applications you've handled will show your expertise and confidence.
✨Show Off Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll be managing a team. Prepare to share your experiences in leading teams, motivating staff, and resolving conflicts. Think of specific situations where your leadership made a difference.
✨Understand the Local Area
Familiarise yourself with Westmorland and Furness Council's unique characteristics, including its national parks and local communities. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your commitment to the area and how you can contribute positively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially regarding appeals and public inquiries. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies in these scenarios to impress the interviewers.