Principal Planning Officer – Development Management

Principal Planning Officer – Development Management

Full-Time 62 - 62 Β£ / hour (est.) No working from home possible
Oyster

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead major planning applications and provide expert advice in a fast-paced environment.
  • Company: Local Authority in South East England with a focus on strategic development.
  • Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, remote work flexibility, and immediate start available.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and engagement with key stakeholders.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on large-scale projects while working remotely.
  • Qualifications: 7+ years in Development Management and strong knowledge of UK planning legislation.

The predicted salary is between 62 - 62 Β£ per hour.

We are currently supporting a Local Authority in the South East of England seeking an experienced Principal Planning Officer to provide specialist support within their Development Management function, with a particular focus on strategic major applications and Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs).

This role requires an individual who can hit the ground running, confidently managing a complex caseload of large-scale applications while operating within a fast-paced local authority environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead on the assessment and determination of major planning applications, including complex and strategic schemes
  • Manage multiple major applications concurrently, ensuring delivery within statutory timeframes and PPA milestones
  • Undertake site inspections and provide professional planning advice informed by site context
  • Prepare and present high-quality officer reports, recommendations, and planning justifications
  • Engage with key stakeholders including developers, consultants, elected members, and statutory consultees
  • Support and advise on Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs), ensuring effective programme management and delivery
  • Contribute to appeals, committees, and hearings where required
Candidate Requirements
  • Minimum 7+ years’ experience within Development Management
  • Proven track record of managing large-scale major planning applications within a Local Authority setting
  • Strong working knowledge of UK planning legislation, policy frameworks, and decision-making processes
  • Experience operating within PPA frameworks and managing complex stakeholder relationships
  • Ability to manage a high-volume, complex caseload autonomously
  • RTPI accredited (or working towards) – desirable
Working Arrangements
  • Β£55–£62 per hour (Inside IR35)
  • 6-month rolling contract
  • Predominantly remote working, with occasional site visits as required
  • Immediate start available

Principal Planning Officer – Development Management employer: Oyster

As a Principal Planning Officer with our Local Authority in South East England, you will join a supportive and dynamic team dedicated to shaping sustainable development in the community. We offer a flexible remote working environment that promotes work-life balance, alongside opportunities for professional growth and engagement with key stakeholders in the planning process. With a focus on major applications and strategic initiatives, this role provides a meaningful chance to make a significant impact while enjoying the benefits of a collaborative and forward-thinking workplace.

Oyster

Contact Details:

Oyster Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer – Development Management

Development Management
Major Planning Applications
Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs)
Site Inspections
Stakeholder Engagement
Report Writing
UK Planning Legislation