Principal Planner

Principal Planner

Full-Time 44075 - 47181 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead on high-profile planning enforcement cases and shape community outcomes.
  • Company: Join Stratford-on-Avon District Council, a passionate team serving a historic region.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25 days leave, health plans, and professional growth opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a picturesque district while developing your career.
  • Qualifications: Planning background with skills in negotiation and report preparation.
  • Other info: Hybrid working options and a supportive environment for career progression.

The predicted salary is between 44075 - 47181 £ per year.

Team / Department: Planning Enforcement, Development Service

Location: Elizabeth House, Stratford-upon-Avon and Remote Working

Employment Status: 18 months FTC

Hours per week: 37

Working Arrangements: Hybrid Working

Salary: Grade F – £44,075 to £47,181 pa + £3,000 P/A Market Supplement (Reviewed after 2 Years)

Join Us in Shaping One of the UK’s Most Iconic Districts

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is proud to serve one of the most picturesque and historically rich regions in the country. Nestled in the heart of Warwickshire, our district is home to over 135,000 residents, vibrant market towns, and millions of visitors each year who come to experience the legacy of William Shakespeare and the charm of our countryside. We’re more than just a local authority — we’re a passionate team of people who care deeply about the communities we serve. When you join us, you’ll be part of a supportive, forward-thinking organisation where your skills and ideas truly matter.

Why Work With Us?

  • Flexibility & Balance
  • 25 days annual leave (minimum), plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time)
  • Hybrid working: up to 60% remote (role-dependent)
  • Flexi-time scheme to help you manage your day your way
  • Health & Lifestyle
    • Health Cash Plan for everyday medical and dental costs
    • Eye care voucher scheme
    • Discounted gym membership with Everyone Active
  • Professional Growth
    • Ongoing training and development opportunities
    • Payment of one professional subscription
    • Supportive environment for career progression
  • Financial Wellbeing
    • Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme
    • Free Will writing service
    • Salary sacrifice schemes (e.g. Cycle to Work)
    • Employee Assistance Programme
    • Free town centre parking

    If you’re ready to take on a role where your expertise directly improves places and people’s lives, we want to hear from you – apply today and help deliver the developments our communities deserve.

    About the Role: Principal Planner (Enforcement)

    In this influential role, you will take the lead on complex and often high‑profile enforcement cases involving non‑compliance with Section 106 agreements – particularly those linked to open space and infrastructure delivery on major developments. In this pivotal role you will play a key part in shaping outcomes for our communities by working proactively with residents, Parish Councillors, Ward Members, and developers colleagues across the authority. Join our busy and dedicated Enforcement Team in the Development Delivery department, working alongside existing Enforcement, Compliance and S106/CIL Officers. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills are essential, as you’ll often be navigating sensitive or complex situations. Alongside providing expert planning advice, you’ll benefit from an understanding of landscape considerations and the legal context surrounding Section 106 agreements. Most importantly, you will bring a genuine passion for creating positive, lasting change. You will steer enforcement decisions with confidence, driving cases forward and taking formal action where necessary to ensure commitments are met.

    Key Responsibilities

    • To carry out site visits to assess compliance with open space layouts and specifications
    • To prepare reports for individual enforcement cases, where appropriate.
    • To prepare written evidence and to act as Council’s witness at Court Hearing for injunctions relating to non compliance with Section 106 agreements.
    • To regularly provide support, information and advice to colleagues within and outside the team, including any member of the Management Team, as well as to elected Members, Parish Councils and third parties.

    What We’re Looking For

    • We’re seeking someone with a planning background but experience in landscape or legal aspects of Section 106 agreements would be helpful.
    • Degree (Bachelor’s or Master’s) in Planning or equivalent and/or eligible for RTPI Chartered Membership (including via experienced practitioner route)
    • Experience in planning or enforcement
    • Skilled in preparing formal reports and negotiating effectively

    Ready to Make an Impact?

    If you’re looking for a role where your expertise will be valued and your work will directly contribute to the character and integrity of a historic district, we’d love to hear from you. For an informal chat about the role, please contact David Jeffery Development Delivery Manager Tel: 01789 260323 Email: david.jeffery@stratford-dc.gov.uk

    Applications will close at midnight on Monday 16th February 2026. Interviews will be held week beginning 2 March 2026.

    To apply, please visit our website: Stratford-on-Avon District Council – Current Vacancies or email hr@stratford-dc.gov.uk

    The Council is committed to equality of opportunity and aims to create a welcoming, inclusive workplace where we are all able to bring our whole selves to work and perform at our best.

    Principal Planner employer: Landscape Institute

    Stratford-on-Avon District Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and forward-thinking work environment that values your skills and ideas. With a comprehensive benefits package including flexible working arrangements, professional growth opportunities, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, you will thrive in a role that directly impacts the community in one of the UK's most picturesque districts. Join us in shaping the future of Stratford-upon-Avon, where your expertise will be recognised and rewarded.
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    Contact Detail:

    Landscape Institute Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Principal Planner

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the planning and enforcement field, especially those who work at Stratford-on-Avon District Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of Section 106 agreements and recent cases. Show us you’re not just a planner but someone who’s genuinely passionate about making a difference in the community.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to navigate sensitive situations, so role-play with a friend or family member. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently during the interview.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the amazing work we do in Stratford-on-Avon.

    We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner

    Exceptional Communication Skills
    Negotiation Skills
    Planning Background
    Understanding of Section 106 Agreements
    Landscape Considerations
    Legal Context Knowledge
    Report Preparation Skills
    Enforcement Experience
    Stakeholder Engagement
    Problem-Solving Skills
    Site Assessment Skills
    Team Collaboration
    Attention to Detail
    Passion for Community Development

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Principal Planner role. We want to see your passion for planning and how you can contribute to our community!

    Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves a lot of interaction with various stakeholders, be sure to demonstrate your exceptional communication and negotiation skills in your written application. We love seeing examples of how you've navigated complex situations!

    Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences. We appreciate a well-structured application!

    Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!

    How to prepare for a job interview at Landscape Institute

    ✨Know Your Stuff

    Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Section 106 agreements and planning enforcement. Familiarise yourself with recent cases and how they were handled, as this will show your expertise and passion for the role.

    ✨Showcase Your Communication Skills

    Since exceptional communication is key in this role, prepare examples of how you've effectively navigated complex situations in the past. Think about times when you’ve had to negotiate or mediate between different parties.

    ✨Prepare for Site Visit Scenarios

    Be ready to discuss how you would approach site visits and assess compliance. Consider potential challenges you might face and how you would address them, demonstrating your proactive mindset.

    ✨Express Your Passion for Community Impact

    This role is all about making a positive change in the community. Be prepared to share why you’re passionate about planning and how you envision contributing to the Stratford-on-Avon District Council’s goals.

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