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- Tasks: Lead major planning applications and support sustainable development in Portsmouth.
- Company: Portsmouth City Council, dedicated to making a positive impact.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Portsmouth through exciting infrastructure projects.
- Qualifications: Planning qualification and RTPI membership required, with strong communication skills.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Portsmouth City Council
Portsmouth City Council is a unique organisation, committed to making a difference, and is guided by core values that set who we are as people, what we stand for, and how we act. We are committed to our values of respect, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity and being people‑focused. These values set out how we can contribute to the success of the council and our own success as individuals.
Why work for us?
We are looking for a Principal Planning Officer to join our service. This is a full‑time, permanent role based at the Civic Offices, here in Portsmouth. We offer hybrid working where 2 days will be office based. This is an exciting time to come and join our Service, we are busy with major infrastructure projects across the city and you will be part of the team that will be unlocking housing and regeneration opportunities to shape the future of Portsmouth.
Your new role
You will be responsible for dealing with Major/PPA applications, with a modest number of minor cases in addition. You will report and present cases to Planning Committee and handle any associated appeals where necessary, as well as providing guidance and advice to a wide range of customers inside and outside of the organisation. You will provide support and advice to junior members of the development management team. The team is committed to delivering a responsive customer‑focused service that brings forward sustainable development that meets the housing and employment needs of the City.
Who is the person summary
To apply, you must have:
- A relevant planning qualification
- Full membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)— this is essential
- Solid knowledge of planning legislation and experience working within Development Management
- A proven track record of handling development proposals successfully, including major applications
- Strong communication, negotiation and influencing skills
- The ability to lead on complex planning matters and support others in the team
- An understanding of local government, political sensitivities, and the role planning plays in delivering regeneration
- Experience in enforcement and a problem‑solving, proactive approach to work
- Confidence engaging with customers and partners, providing clear and accurate professional advice
Additional information
For the full details, please review the job profile attached below. If you would like to discuss this role in more detail with the hiring manager, please contact Nick Lloyd‑Davies: email: Nick.Lloyd‑Davies@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
Interview date
Interviews will be held on the 19th and 20th February 2026.
Our recruitment process
Full information about our recruitment process can be found on our support for applicants' page: Support for applicants – Careers portal. Please ensure that you read the job profile for full details on the post. We offer hybrid working with the expectation to attend the office minimum 2 days a week (pro rata for part time), this remains flexible, depending on the role and subject to business needs.
In the personal statement, you must demonstrate why you are suitable against each of the points described in the ‘Who is the Person’ points on the Job Profile using examples from your experience or transferable skills. This might be through qualifications or descriptive examples from your work / personal experience, which clearly illustrate what you did and the effect it had. If you apply without a detailed personal statement, it is unlikely that you will be shortlisted.
Should you require any support in completing the application form please contact recruit@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call the recruitment team on 023 92 616 800. We are a disability confident employer and Armed Forces Covenant gold standard. More information can be found at Equality, diversity and inclusion – Careers portal. You will need to demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. No post will be offered without it.
Read more about working at Portsmouth City Council and our benefits on our careers portal homepage: Careers Portal – Find jobs with Portsmouth City Council.
Principal Planning Officer in Portsmouth employer: Portsmouth City Council
Contact Detail:
Portsmouth City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Portsmouth City Council's values inside out! When you’re chatting with the hiring manager or during interviews, sprinkle in how your own values align with theirs. It shows you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the team too!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your presentation skills! Since you'll be reporting and presenting cases to the Planning Committee, it’s crucial to be confident and clear. Try rehearsing with friends or family to get comfortable with your delivery.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from showcasing your problem-solving skills! Think of examples where you’ve tackled complex planning issues. This will help you stand out as someone who can lead on tricky matters and support your future team.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the recruitment team – they’re there to help you through the process!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Make sure you really understand the job description and the key requirements. Highlight your relevant planning qualifications and RTPI membership in your application. We want to see how your experience aligns with what we're looking for!
Personal Statement Power: Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Use it to demonstrate how you meet each of the 'Who is the Person' points. Share specific examples from your past work or experiences that show off your skills and achievements.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure your communication is straightforward. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our careers portal! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you can find all the info you need about the role and our values there too!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your planning legislation and the specifics of the role. Understand the key responsibilities of a Principal Planning Officer and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with handling major applications and providing guidance to others.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication is crucial for this role, prepare examples that highlight your negotiation and influencing skills. Think about times when you've successfully engaged with customers or stakeholders and how you navigated complex planning matters.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Ability
Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced in development management and how you approached them. This could include enforcement issues or tricky negotiations. Show that you have a proactive mindset and can think on your feet.
✨Align with Their Values
Portsmouth City Council values respect, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity, and being people-focused. Prepare to discuss how you embody these values in your work. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your commitment to these principles.
