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- Tasks: Lead planning projects to shape the future of Mid Devon, focusing on homes and infrastructure.
- Company: Join Mid Devon District Council, dedicated to sustainable growth and community development.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, a supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a beautiful rural area while tackling climate challenges and promoting economic growth.
- Qualifications: Must have a Planning Degree and membership with the Royal Town Planning Institute.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
The predicted salary is between 41511 - 44711 £ per year.
PERMANENT: FULL TIME, 37 HOURS PER WEEK
SALARY:£41,511 to £44,711
LOCATION:TIVERTON
Mid Devon District Council has started preparing a new Local Plan that will bring forward homes, jobs, community facilities and infrastructure to meet our needs while protecting a high quality natural environment. The Local Plan will have a key role in planning for economic growth, responding to the climate emergency and moving towards net-zero carbon future.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced planning policy officer to take a lead role across a range of projects and help us plan for the future of the district through a reformed plan making system, working in an attractive rural area close to the city of Exeter and within easy reach of the Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks, Blackdown Hills National Landscape and the north and south Devon coasts.
We are looking for someone who has significant experience in the preparation of local plans and other planning documents, including writing policies and identifying site options, developing technical evidence and studies (including procuring consultants), and liaising with other service areas in the Council and engagement with a range of stakeholders including statutory consultees and agencies, Town and Parish Councils and local communities. You will have a sound understanding of plan making legislation and the National Planning Policy Framework.
To be successful in this role you must have ambition to deliver amazing places, have a positive approach to challenges, problem solving, and the ability to use your initiative, be able to innovate and seek creative solutions to planning for new homes and jobs and securing the delivery of infrastructure.
You should hold a Planning Degree and have membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
To find out more
To find out more about this role please contactTristan Peat, Forward Planning Team Leader on (01884) 234344.
The Job Description refers to the level of competencies required for this post. Foran explanation of what this means,please see Core Competencies .
A satisfactory basic disclosure check and three years complete employment history will be requested in the event of you being offered the position.
Unfortunately we are unable to sponsor skilled worker visas at this time. For more information on pre-employment checks, please review the documents found here.
Please remember to quote the following post and vacancy numbers:
CLOSING DATE:
CLOSING DATE: 14 July 2025 at 5:00pm
POST NUMBER:
POST NUMBER: PF04
VACANCY NUMBER:
VACANCY NUMBER: 2025075
PROPOSED INTERVIEW DATE: w/c 4 & 11 August 2025
MDDC reserves the right to close this vacancy early. We therefore encourage early applications.
We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer of first choice reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all underrepresented groups. We are keen to make our interviews accessible. Let us know on your job application if you have a disability and need any reasonable adjustments.
We\’re committed to Equality of Opportunity andwelcome applications from all sections of the community.
If we\’ve not contacted you within two weeks of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
Thank you for showing an interest in this vacancy and we wish you every success with your on-going job search.
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Principal Forward Planning Officer employer: Mid Devon Council District
Contact Detail:
Mid Devon Council District Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Forward Planning Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Planning Policy Framework and local planning legislation. Understanding these frameworks will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and your ability to navigate complex planning issues.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the planning field, especially those who have experience with local plans. Engaging with current or former employees of Mid Devon District Council can provide valuable insights into their processes and expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects you've worked on that relate to local planning. Highlight your experience in writing policies, developing technical evidence, and engaging with stakeholders, as these are key aspects of the Principal Forward Planning Officer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your problem-solving skills by thinking of innovative solutions to common planning challenges. Be ready to share examples of how you've approached similar issues in the past, as this will illustrate your proactive mindset and ability to deliver results.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Forward Planning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements. Highlight your relevant experience in local planning and policy writing that aligns with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in preparing local plans and engaging with stakeholders. Use specific examples that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and innovative approaches in planning.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for planning and your understanding of the challenges faced in the field. Mention your ambition to deliver quality places and how your background makes you a perfect fit for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mid Devon Council District
✨Know Your Local Plan Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the specifics of the Local Plan that Mid Devon District Council is preparing. Familiarise yourself with the key objectives, such as economic growth and climate response, so you can discuss how your experience aligns with these goals.
✨Showcase Your Planning Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in preparing local plans and writing policies. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully identified site options or developed technical evidence, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Engagement is Key
Prepare examples of how you've engaged with stakeholders in the past, including Town and Parish Councils and local communities. This will show your ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively, which is crucial for this position.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Think of instances where you've faced challenges in planning and how you approached them. Be ready to discuss your innovative solutions and how you used your initiative to overcome obstacles, as this reflects the positive approach they are looking for.
