At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead landscape assessments for major developments and shape sustainable placemaking strategies.
- Company: Join Somerset Council, a leader in innovative planning and environmental enhancement.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 30 days annual leave, and a competitive salary.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Somerset's landscapes and communities through your expertise.
- Qualifications: Degree in Landscape Architecture or related field; experience in landscape design and planning.
The predicted salary is between 41771 - 46142 £ per year.
Location: Taunton, GB, TA1 4DY
Company: Somerset Council
Closing date: 26 May 2026
Salary: Grade 9 ranging from £41,771 – £46,142 per annum.
As a Senior Landscape and Placemaking Officer you will play a pivotal role in the Planning Directorate, contributing to the sustainable development and enhancement of Somerset's natural and built environments. The service brings together Landscape, Urban Design, Trees and Conservation to provide innovative solutions to challenging issues and is at the forefront of new thinking.
Role Summary
The role leads on the landscape and placemaking assessment of major and strategic development planning applications, ensuring that proposals respond positively to local character, landscape sensitivity, and the Council’s ambitions for high‑quality, sustainable place‑making. The postholder plays a key role in shaping growth across the county by providing expert landscape, design and placemaking advice, evaluating whether proposed designs are suitable for their location, deliver high‑quality environments, and comply with national and local planning policy. This role involves assessing planning applications for landscape, visual and design impacts, shaping landscape and placemaking strategies and policies for Somerset, and working closely with developers, communities and internal teams to deliver attractive, greener places. You’ll also support the Placemaking Team Manager on various major strategic projects such as Hinkley Point C nuclear power station, Bridgwater Tidal Barrier, and Gravity Enterprise Zone to ensure that where possible they protect and enhance Somerset’s public spaces and landscapes.
What You’ll Do – Key Responsibilities
- Provide expert landscape, visual impact and placemaking advice on planning applications, focusing predominantly on strategic and major infrastructure schemes.
- Evaluate the suitability of proposed designs in relation to landscape character, visual impact, settlement form, topography, heritage setting, green infrastructure, and local distinctiveness.
- Review and critique Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIAs), Design and Access Statements, masterplans, design codes, and environmental statements.
- Shape landscape strategies, design codes, masterplans and planning policies to support high‑quality development.
- Champion high‑quality design, sustainable placemaking, and landscape‑led development across the Council.
- Work collaboratively with developers, communities and internal teams to embed placemaking in the planning process.
- Undertake site visits and prepare reports for planning committees, inquiries and appeals, acting as expert witness where required.
- Monitor landscape conditions and support delivery of strategic landscape and placemaking projects.
Essential What we’re looking for – knowledge, experience & skills
- Degree in Landscape Architecture, Landscape Planning, urban design or a related field.
- Membership (or eligible to join) of a relevant professional body, such as the Landscape Institute.
- In‑depth knowledge of landscape design and planning and urban design principles.
- Understanding of local and national planning policies and guidelines.
- Familiarity with landscape and visual impact assessment methodologies.
- Knowledge of sustainable landscape management practices.
- In‑depth knowledge of hard and soft landscape detailing and use of materials.
- Aware of biodiversity and ecological principles in landscape design.
- Understanding of public engagement and consultation processes.
- Proven experience in landscape architecture, landscape planning, urban design or a related field.
- Experience assessing and advising on landscape and visual impacts of development proposals.
- Experience developing and implementing landscape strategies and policies.
- Experience working with a range of stakeholders, including developers and community groups.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong analytical and report‑writing skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders.
- Proficiency in using landscape design and assessment software.
- Membership of a professional body such as the Landscape Institute.
Desirable
- Postgraduate qualification in a related discipline.
- Certification in landscape and visual impact assessment.
- Training in sustainable landscape management practices.
- Qualification in public engagement and consultation.
- Experience preparing and presenting reports to planning committees.
- Experience delivering training and guidance on landscape and placemaking matters.
- Strong project management skills.
- Chartered membership of the Landscape Institute (CMLI) or working towards it.
Additional Information
- Permanent, 37 Hours a week.
- Flexible and Hybrid working (1-2 days per week in the Office).
- 30 day’s annual leave (additional to bank holidays).
- Optional membership of the defined benefit Local Government Pension Scheme.
- This role will require travel around Somerset, in areas that are not covered by public transport.
For an Informal Chat about the role, you can contact Fiona Webb at fiona.webb@somerset.gov.uk.
Senior Landscape and Placemaking Officer in South Shields employer: Landscape Institute
Somerset Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where creativity and sustainability are at the forefront of landscape and placemaking initiatives. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a generous leave policy, staff are empowered to make a meaningful impact on Somerset's natural and built environments while enjoying a supportive and collaborative culture. Join us in shaping the future of our communities and enhancing the beauty of our landscapes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Landscape and Placemaking Officer in South Shields
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in landscape architecture and urban design on platforms like LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, attend local meetups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Create a portfolio showcasing your best work in landscape and placemaking. Include case studies of projects you've worked on, highlighting your role and the impact of your contributions. This will help us see your skills in action when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local and national planning policies. Be ready to discuss how you would approach specific challenges in Somerset's landscape. We want to hear your ideas on sustainable development and high-quality placemaking!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them of your enthusiasm for the role. We appreciate candidates who show genuine interest!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Landscape and Placemaking Officer in South Shields
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Senior Landscape and Placemaking Officer. We want to see how you can contribute to Somerset's natural and built environments!
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t hold back on showcasing your knowledge in landscape design, urban planning, and sustainable practices. We’re looking for someone who can provide expert advice, so let us know about your relevant experiences and qualifications!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications and experiences. We appreciate a well-structured application!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember 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 Landscape
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Somerset's landscapes and built environments. Familiarise yourself with local planning policies and recent projects in the area, especially those related to sustainable development. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in landscape architecture or urban design. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've assessed planning applications or developed landscape strategies. Highlight any successful collaborations with developers or community groups to demonstrate your teamwork skills.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about landscape and visual impact assessments, as well as design codes and masterplans. Brush up on relevant methodologies and be prepared to critique sample documents. This will help you showcase your analytical skills and depth of knowledge in the field.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team’s current projects or the Council’s vision for sustainable placemaking. Engaging with the interviewers shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
