Principal Planning Officer

About the role

Are you looking to be part of an RTPI award‑winning planning service where professional excellence and staff wellbeing are central to everything we do? Our Development Management team is widely recognised for delivering a high‑quality, commercially aware service while fostering a positive, supportive working environment. Rochdale is a key part of the Greater Manchester city region and is undergoing significant economic growth and regeneration. Working collaboratively with local and Greater Manchester partners, as well as the private sector, we are driving forward ambitious plans to revitalise our town centres and neighbourhoods. By capitalising on our strong connectivity, distinctive heritage and strategic location at the heart of the Northern Powerhouse, we are shaping a sustainable and prosperous future. Effective development management is fundamental to achieving these ambitions.

We are now seeking an experienced Principal Planning Officer to join our high‑performing and dynamic Development Management team. Working closely with colleagues across the planning service, you will play a central role in the determination of a wide range of planning applications, including major and complex proposals. The role will also involve providing pre‑application advice, undertaking site visits, preparing high‑quality reports and managing planning appeals. We are looking for a motivated and skilled professional with a strong track record in Development Management, gained within a local authority and/or private sector environment. This role offers the opportunity to lead on complex and high‑profile planning matters, producing clear, robust and well‑reasoned reports and recommendations for Planning Committee, project boards, senior management and external stakeholders. You will also play an important role in mentoring and supporting junior officers, exercising delegated decision‑making powers and helping to drive the continued success and reputation of the planning service.

About you

Rochdale Council is pioneering and open in its approach, proud of the positive impact we make, and passionate about the rich diversity of our borough. These values shape everything we do, and we are seeking an individual who shares this ethos—someone who approaches challenges constructively, is solutions‑focused, and brings a professional, organised and creative mindset to their work in planning. You will have a proactive outlook and the ability to communicate confidently and effectively with members of the public, developers and a wide range of stakeholders. As a strong team player, you will demonstrate enthusiasm, drive and a positive, customer‑focused approach when engaging with applicants, councillors and the wider community. In return, you will have the opportunity to develop and maintain an up‑to‑date understanding of planning legislation, policy and best practice within Development Management, and to apply this knowledge creatively and pragmatically in a real‑world context. A good level of competence and experience in using ICT systems is essential.

About us

You’ll enjoy hybrid and flexible working arrangements, your professional fees will be paid, you will have a generous annual leave entitlement, access to the fantastic local government pension scheme, and subsidised gym membership. We have a culture of staff development and performance improvement and take your professional development seriously. As part of the Organisational Development team, we will support you to improve your skills and behaviours.