At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage planning applications and lead on appeals while ensuring high-quality development.
- Company: Join the Royal Borough of Greenwich, a vibrant and diverse community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and strong professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with clear career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in one of London's most distinctive boroughs with exciting growth areas.
- Qualifications: 3+ years' experience in planning and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45750 - 52194 £ per year.
The Royal Borough of Greenwich is seeking motivated and enthusiastic Principal Planning Officers to join our dynamic Planning Service. We are recruiting to career‑graded posts (up to PO4) within our Development Management Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to build your planning career in one of London’s most distinctive boroughs—home to a World Heritage Site, historic town centres, the River Thames, and major regeneration areas including Woolwich, Charlton Riverside, and the Greenwich Peninsula. You will manage a varied caseload of planning applications and contribute to the delivery of high-quality, sustainable development that supports our communities and aligns with our strategic priorities.
Responsibilities
- Manage your own varied caseload, including complex and sensitive applications, and associated enforcement matters.
- Lead on planning appeals, including Public Inquiries, and represent the Council as an expert witness.
- Provide high‑quality pre‑application advice and clear guidance on planning legislation, policy and procedure.
- Present applications at Planning Committee and support officers you supervise in doing the same.
- Work collaboratively with applicants, agents, residents, Members and internal stakeholders to secure high‑quality development outcomes.
- Prepare robust, well‑written reports, statements and legal documentation.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of the Planning Service, including policy development, service innovation and best‑practice initiatives.
At PO4 level, you will additionally:
- Lead on complex non‑major applications with minimal supervision.
- Oversee the quality and accuracy of delegated and committee reports across the team including making delegated decisions.
- Deputise for the Deputy Team Manager when required.
- Drive service improvements and ensure performance targets are met.
- Commission and manage external consultants (e.g., viability specialists).
Qualifications and Experience
You’ll bring:
- At least three years’ post‑qualification experience and eligibility for membership of an appropriate professional body (e.g., RTPI).
- Strong knowledge of planning legislation, the NPPF, London Plan and local policy.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- A solution‑focused, creative and pragmatic approach to problem‑solving.
- The ability to manage your workload independently and work to changing deadlines.
- A commitment to delivering high‑quality customer‑focused services.
- Alignment with the Council’s values of public service, equality, respect and continuous improvement.
Why Join Greenwich?
Working for the Royal Borough of Greenwich means:
- Being part of a borough with major growth areas, strategic regeneration sites and a diverse range of planning challenges.
- Opportunities for career progression through our structured Career Grade Scheme.
- A supportive, collaborative team environment.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- A strong commitment to professional development.
Diversity Statement: Royal Borough of Greenwich values the diversity of its community and aims to have a workforce that reflects this. We therefore encourage applications from all sections of the community.
Principal Planning Officers employer: Royal Borough Of Greenwich
The Royal Borough of Greenwich is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and professional growth within the dynamic Planning Service. With a commitment to flexible working arrangements and a structured Career Grade Scheme, employees can thrive in their careers while contributing to the development of one of London's most distinctive boroughs, rich in history and regeneration opportunities.
Contact Details:
Royal Borough Of Greenwich Recruitment Team
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We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officers
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
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