Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage complex planning applications and provide expert recommendations.
- Company: Join a Local Authority in Somerset dedicated to community development.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible working options, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping local development and fostering team collaboration.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning and previous management experience required.
- Other info: Role runs until January 2026; negotiable rate at £50 Umbrella.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
As Principal Planning Officer, your main function will be to manage a caseload of complex minor and major applications for our client\’s busy Development Management Team. You will appraise and make recommendations on complex, contentious, and controversial planning applications and cases against the Local Plan, regulations, and legislative frameworks, to ensure that applications are compliant with requirements and our client’s needs. You will provide written statements and Proofs of Evidence and represent the Council at Examinations in Public and associated hearings as an expert witness.
You will be expected to communicate priorities, standards, and targets clearly to team members and to encourage an open and participative culture within the team and the service.
The successful candidate for this role will be degree qualified in Town Planning as a minimum and will have previous management experience at some level. It is essential that you are confident and capable of acting as both manager and technical expert for the team.
Our client is a Local Authority in Somerset, and the role is initially running until Jan 2026. The rate is negotiable; we would expect £50 Umbrella. This role is inside IR35.
A full JD is available on application.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Principal Planner employer: Osborne Richardson
Contact Detail:
Osborne Richardson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the Local Plan and relevant regulations in Somerset. Understanding the local context will help you make informed recommendations and demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss your previous management experience in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams, handled complex applications, and fostered a participative culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your public speaking skills, as you'll need to represent the Council at Examinations in Public. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently to convey your expertise effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the planning field, especially those who have experience with local authorities. Building connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Principal Planning Officer. Familiarize yourself with the requirements outlined in the job description, especially regarding managing complex applications and providing expert evidence.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize your previous management experience and any specific cases where you've handled contentious planning applications. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your expertise and decision-making skills.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that outlines your passion for town planning and your ability to communicate effectively with team members. Highlight your commitment to fostering an open and participative culture within the team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Ensure that there are no grammatical errors and that your statements are clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Osborne Richardson
✨Showcase Your Expertise
As a Principal Planner, you'll need to demonstrate your deep understanding of planning regulations and local policies. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've managed and how you navigated complex applications.
✨Communicate Clearly
Effective communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts on planning issues clearly and concisely, as you'll need to convey priorities and standards to your team and represent the Council confidently.
✨Prepare for Expert Witness Scenarios
Since you'll be acting as an expert witness, think about potential questions you might face during public examinations. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to defend your recommendations and decisions.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Highlight your previous management experience and how you've fostered a participative culture within your teams. Share examples of how you've motivated team members and handled conflicts or challenges.
