At a Glance
- Tasks: Guide major planning proposals and ensure sustainable development for local communities.
- Company: Join North Somerset Council, dedicated to creating a fair and inclusive environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team with strong support for wellbeing and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your planning expertise.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town and Country Planning or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About Us
North Somerset Council is committed to providing high-quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green, and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.
The Role
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Principal Planning Officer to join our Strategic Development Team. The Strategic Development Team is responsible for guiding proposals through the development process including examining, processing and evaluating major planning and related applications including pre-and post-application advice, site inspections, negotiations, preparation and presentation of reports to a range of audiences.
In this role, you will be required to undertake development management activities for new development including planning applications, advice and appeals for major developments and related compliance and enforcement. Roles at this level deliver a specific service and are part of a collaborative team responsible for strategic development activities within the Planning Service.
Key Responsibilities
- Process major planning applicants and make recommendations.
- Prepare reports, including proofs of evidence in relation to a range of appeals, and present evidence at hearings, public inquiries, and court proceedings.
- Give information and advice to businesses, the public and other stakeholders about legislative requirements and standards for compliance with planning legislation.
Valid driving licence and own transport, or be able to provide an alternative, suitable method of travel is an essential condition for this role.
Work Style
At North Somerset Council, we offer a hybrid working environment based on four distinct work styles. Depending on the role and personal circumstances, you will fall into one of these categories. However, please note that during the induction period, it may be necessary to spend more time in the office to support your learning and development. We are flexible and open to discussions about your preferred working style, and if you wish to be in the office more frequently, this can be negotiated. This role falls into the category of Flexible Worker which means you can expect to work in the following way:
- 2-3 days in the office per month.
- Works both from home and the office, depending on the task at hand.
Training is provided to help balance work-life and manage time effectively, with an emphasis on communication for team touchpoints and planning in-office days for collaboration.
About You
We are looking for an individual who is passionate about using the Planning system to deliver sustainable development that meets the needs of local communities, and who possesses the following skills and experience:
Essential Criteria
- Significant evidence of working with the most complex and challenging areas of Development Management.
- Academic qualifications in Town and Country planning or similar at Honours degree level or above, or in exceptional circumstances equivalent experience to give an in-depth level of knowledge necessary to undertake the most complex cases.
- A comprehensive knowledge of legislation, policy, regulations and professional codes of practice for Development Management.
- Ability to prepare & present information/evidence clearly and confidently at Public Inquiries and planning committee meetings.
- Ability to manage and organise own work and assist that of colleagues to meet agreed deadlines.
Desirable Criteria
- Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute or approved professional qualification relevant to the area of work.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Local Government Pension.
- Opportunities for professional development.
- Inclusive Staff groups including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage), and Young Staff Forums.
- Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days annual leave each year.
- Dedicated in-house Wellbeing Team.
- Salary sacrifice Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes.
Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.
How to Apply
If you share our vision and values and are ready to make an impact to North Somerset, please select the apply online button below. If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please submit your application by 11.59pm on the application closing date. When completing our online application form, please detail how you meet the essential criteria for the role.
Contact Information
For further information about the role, please contact Max Smith (Strategic Development Service Manager).
Important Information
As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job role. Please note: We are currently only able to accept applications from candidates who have full permission to work in the UK and are unable to provide Sponsorship for this role.
Equal Opportunities
At North Somerset Council we want all our employees to feel valued and appreciated. We aim to ensure equality of opportunity and prevent discrimination irrespective of your sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or belief, race, age, disability, including neurodiversity, if you are married or in a civil partnership or are pregnant or currently on maternity leave. We strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early or extend the closing date depending on the number of applications received.
Principal Planning Officer employer: North Somerset Council
North Somerset Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a fair, green, and inclusive environment for its community. With a strong emphasis on professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits. The council's commitment to diversity and wellbeing ensures that all staff feel valued and appreciated, making it an ideal place for those passionate about sustainable development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the planning sector, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching North Somerset Council and understanding their values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their commitment to sustainable development and community impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills during the interview! Bring examples of your past work, especially those that demonstrate your ability to handle complex planning cases. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at North Somerset Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for planning and community development shine through. We want to see how your values align with ours at North Somerset Council!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in Development Management. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your ability to handle complex cases and meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to explain your qualifications and experiences, especially when discussing your ability to prepare and present evidence confidently.
Apply Online:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to review your details and get you into the process. Remember to hit that apply button before the deadline!
How to prepare for a job interview at North Somerset Council
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Brush up on the latest planning legislation and policies relevant to the role. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your depth of knowledge and commitment to the field.
✨Prepare for Evidence Presentation
Since you'll need to present evidence at public inquiries, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Consider doing mock presentations with friends or colleagues to build your confidence.
✨Showcase Your Community Passion
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable development and how it impacts local communities. Share examples from your past experiences that highlight your dedication to making a positive difference.
✨Understand the Hybrid Work Model
Familiarise yourself with the hybrid working environment mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss how you can effectively balance remote and in-office work while maintaining productivity.
