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- Tasks: Lead community-led planning and guide local areas in shaping their future.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in the New Forest, focused on impactful neighbourhood planning.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a politically engaging environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in communities while navigating exciting planning challenges.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40174 - 43236 £ per year.
Love community‑led planning and guiding local areas to shape their future? We’re looking for a motivated and politically aware planning professional to join our Planning Policy, Infrastructure and Delivery Team as our Neighbourhood Plans Officer.
Why this role matters
Neighbourhood planning in the New Forest is both rewarding and challenging. You’ll be operating in a high‑profile political environment, where balancing national policy, local priorities, environmental protection, and strong public interest is essential. The district includes:
- Internationally protected landscapes
- High levels of development pressure
- Complex stakeholder relationships
- Communities passionate about shaping the places where they live
Your ability to work confidently with elected members, community groups, statutory bodies and planning professionals will be crucial in ensuring neighbourhood plans are robust, deliverable and locally supported.
About the role
Some key elements of the role include:
- Lead the Council’s day‑to‑day engagement in neighbourhood planning.
- Advise and guide parish and town councils through every stage of neighbourhood plan preparation.
- Present to local communities and councillors on the neighbourhood planning process.
- Coordinate responses from internal services and external bodies.
- Support examinations.
- Coordinate referendums and adoption processes.
- Apply strong judgement in a politically sensitive context with high public visibility.
- Support the preparation of the local plan where appropriate.
As part of the ongoing Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), the organisation will transition into a new operating structure from 1 April 2028. It is important that applicants understand how this may affect their employment should they be successful.
Qualifications
A degree in a relevant built or natural environment subject (RTPI accredited or eligible preferred) is preferred. The following skills and experience are required:
- Strong communication skills, with confidence presenting in public and political settings.
- Experience working with communities and an understanding of the neighbourhood planning process.
- The ability to balance differing viewpoints, manage complex issues, and work creatively under pressure.
- A genuine interest in planning policy and community‑led plan making.
Disability Confident
As a Disability Confident employer, we will offer an interview to any applicant who declares a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the role. In certain high‑volume recruitment situations, the total number of interviews offered may be limited to balance disabled and non‑disabled candidates.
Benefits
£40,174 to £43,236 per annum (pay award pending) – up to £44,472 per annum for exceptional performance once in post. 27 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, plus an additional 5 days for 5 years of continuous local authority service. Local Government Pension Scheme and AVC provision. Hybrid Working. Wide range of employee discounts at high‑street retailers, including supermarkets, stores and restaurants. Cycle to Work scheme that could save you around 40% on cycles and accessories. Employee Assistance Programme (free 24‑hour legal, financial and personal advice for employees).
Neighbourhood Planning Officer - Fixed term for two years in Lyndhurst employer: NEW FOREST DISTRICT COUNCIL
Contact Detail:
NEW FOREST DISTRICT COUNCIL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Neighbourhood Planning Officer - Fixed term for two years in Lyndhurst
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with local community groups, planning professionals, and elected members. Attend events or workshops related to neighbourhood planning to make those valuable connections that could lead to your next opportunity.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in public speaking! Since this role involves presenting to communities and councillors, practice your presentation skills. You could even volunteer to speak at local events to build your confidence and showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on local issues and policies! Being politically aware is key for this role. Follow local news, attend council meetings, and engage with community discussions to understand the landscape you'll be working in.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application, so make sure you submit it directly on our platform. It’s the best way to ensure we get all your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Neighbourhood Planning Officer - Fixed term for two years in Lyndhurst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Community Planning: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for community-led planning shine through. We want to see how much you care about helping local areas shape their future and how your experience aligns with this passion.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. We’re looking for someone who understands the neighbourhood planning process, so connect your past work to the key elements of the role.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, especially when it comes to complex issues. Use bullet points if necessary to make your skills and experiences stand out.
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 NEW FOREST DISTRICT COUNCIL
✨Know Your Neighbourhood Planning
Make sure you brush up on the neighbourhood planning process and its significance in community-led initiatives. Familiarise yourself with local policies, recent developments, and how they impact the New Forest area. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to discuss how you would engage with various stakeholders, including elected members and community groups. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated complex relationships or managed differing viewpoints. This will demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively in a politically sensitive environment.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll be presenting to local communities and councillors, practice your public speaking skills. Consider doing mock presentations to friends or family, focusing on clarity and confidence. Being able to communicate effectively will be key in this role, so show them you can do it!
✨Show Your Passion for Planning
Let your enthusiasm for planning policy and community engagement shine through during the interview. Share any relevant projects or initiatives you've been involved in that reflect your commitment to shaping local areas. This will help you connect with the interviewers and highlight your suitability for the role.