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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver complex planning policy projects while collaborating with stakeholders.
- Company: Established local authority in vibrant South West London.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local planning policies and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in local authority planning policy and strong stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for mentoring junior officers and contributing to service improvement.
The predicted salary is between 40 - 55 £ per hour.
A well-established local authority based in South West London is seeking an experienced Principal Planning Policy Officer to support the delivery of key planning policy work within a busy Strategic Planning and Infrastructure function.
This is a senior, high-impact role within a multidisciplinary planning service covering Planning Policy, Development Management and Infrastructure, with a strong focus on Local Plan delivery, policy development and stakeholder engagement.
Assignment Details
- Contract Length: 9 months (ongoing assignment)
- Pay Rate: £55 per hour (Umbrella) - 36 hours per week
- Working Pattern: Hybrid - 1 to 2 days per week in the office, remainder remote
- Office Location: Town-centre offices in South West London (High Street location)
- Closing Date: 20/02/2026 at 17:00
The Role
Reporting to a senior planning lead, the Principal Planning Policy Officer will be responsible for leading and delivering complex planning policy projects and workstreams, supporting the preparation, review and monitoring of the Local Plan and associated planning policy documents.
The role requires close collaboration with internal services, elected members, external partners and local communities to ensure policy objectives align with corporate priorities and national planning guidance.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead on the preparation, review and delivery of planning policy documents, including Local Plan workstreams
- Manage and deliver complex policy projects and evidence base work
- Contribute to policy development, planning briefs, topic papers and supplementary guidance
- Provide high-level professional planning advice on policy implications of development proposals
- Support public consultation and engagement exercises
- Represent the service at meetings, consultations and stakeholder forums
- Mentor and support junior planning officers where required
- Contribute to service planning, performance targets and continuous improvement initiatives
Skills, Knowledge & Experience
Essential:
- Significant experience working within a local authority, council or housing association environment only
- Proven experience in Planning Policy at Senior or Principal level
- Strong knowledge of the UK planning system, policy preparation and Local Plan processes
- Ability to manage complex workstreams and competing deadlines
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Eligible for or holding RTPI membership
Desirable:
- Experience supporting or participating in Examinations in Public
- Experience managing or mentoring other planning officers
Apply early to avoid disappointment. Shortlisting may take place prior to the closing date.
Linsco is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.
Principal Planning Policy Officer employer: Linsco Ltd
Contact Detail:
Linsco Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Policy Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the planning sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local planning events or forums. This is a great way to meet key stakeholders and show off your expertise. Plus, it’ll keep you in the loop about what’s happening in the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow relevant organisations and engage with their posts. It’s a fantastic way to showcase your knowledge and connect with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be your next big break. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate and keeps everything in one place for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Policy Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in planning policy. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Principal Planning Policy Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills: Since this role involves a lot of collaboration, emphasise your experience in stakeholder engagement. We love to see examples of how you've successfully worked with different partners and communities to achieve planning objectives.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out. Use bullet points if necessary to make your experience easy to read!
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. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Linsco Ltd
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on the latest UK planning policies and local plans relevant to the role. Being able to discuss specific policies and how they impact the local authority will show your expertise and commitment.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of complex policy projects you've managed in the past. Highlight your ability to juggle multiple workstreams and meet deadlines, as this is crucial for the Principal Planning Policy Officer role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in previous roles. Be ready to share specific instances where your communication skills made a difference, as stakeholder management is key in this position.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentoring
Since mentoring junior officers is part of the job, come prepared with examples of how you've supported or guided others in your field. This will show that you're not just a strong individual contributor but also a team player.
