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- Tasks: Lead negotiations on major development projects and manage planning applications.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on impactful community developments in St Albans.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive hourly rate and the opportunity to work on large-scale projects.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in urban planning while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be an RTPI member or eligible, with strong negotiation and communication skills.
- Other info: This is a 6-month contract role with flexible working hours.
Planning Consultant (Strategic Sites)
Based in St Albans, Hertfordshire – On site
6 Month Contract
Hourly rate of £72.21 (37 hours PW) Inside IR35, VIA Umbrella
The Strategic Sites team sits within the Development Management team in Community and Place delivery. The team deals with scale major and strategic scale proposed developments, generally those over 100 dwellings or larger commercial applications.
Current projects range in scale from a reserved matters application for 95 units to an outline scheme for 4,000 units. Some proposals are emerging site allocations, whilst others are speculative. Proposed developments may be outline or reserved matters.
The team generally operates using Planning Performance Agreements, although applications are sometimes submitted outside of that framework. Most commonly, PPAs commence at pre app stage and often run through the application stage as well.
The Client is looking for a proactive individual, capable of working under minimal supervision, with a strong track record of delivering planning decisions which secure high quality development at a large or strategic scale.
The contractor will be responsible for negotiating proposed developments through the pre app and application stages, within the framework of a PPA. They will be guided by the Team Leader and Deputy and will have the support of a Design Officer who sits within the team. The contractor will be responsible for the following key stages:
- Negotiate the terms of the PPA with the applicant.
- Lead on the pre-application negotiations: arranging and attending meetings, liaising with consultees and providing written feedback to the applicant. This is likely to include site visits.
- Process the planning application once submitted.
- Write the officer report.
- Present to committee.
Experience Needed:
- RTPI member or eligible to join.
- The contractor will need to be a self-starter, able to work independently with limited supervision, with a track record of dealing with such sites at both pre application and application stages. A strong negotiator is required, who is able to communicate articulately via both written and spoken mediums.
Due to high demand, we are only able to respond to applications that meet the required criteria.
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Planning Consultant (Strategic Sites) employer: Qualserv Consulting
Contact Detail:
Qualserv Consulting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Consultant (Strategic Sites)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the specific planning policies and frameworks relevant to strategic sites in Hertfordshire. Understanding local regulations and guidelines will help you demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the planning sector, especially those who have experience with large-scale developments. Attend local planning meetings or forums to build connections that could provide insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences with Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs) in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully negotiated terms and led pre-application discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by practicing how you would present a planning application to a committee. Being articulate and confident in your delivery can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Consultant (Strategic Sites)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Planning Consultant position. Understand the key responsibilities, such as negotiating terms of the PPA and leading pre-application negotiations, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your experience with large-scale developments and your ability to work independently. Mention specific projects where you successfully navigated the planning process, particularly those involving pre-application and application stages.
Demonstrate Negotiation Skills: Since strong negotiation skills are crucial for this role, provide examples in your application that showcase your ability to negotiate effectively. This could include experiences where you successfully mediated between stakeholders or secured favorable outcomes in planning discussions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your enthusiasm for the role. Discuss why you are a good fit for the Strategic Sites team and how your proactive approach aligns with their needs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Qualserv Consulting
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
As a Planning Consultant, strong negotiation skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully negotiated terms or resolved conflicts during the planning process.
✨Demonstrate Your Independent Work Ethic
The role requires a self-starter who can work with minimal supervision. Highlight instances where you took initiative on projects, managed your time effectively, and delivered results independently.
✨Familiarize Yourself with Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs)
Understanding PPAs is essential for this position. Make sure to research how they function and be ready to discuss your experience with them, including any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to planning applications and strategic developments. Brush up on relevant legislation, policies, and best practices in planning to demonstrate your expertise and confidence during the interview.
