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- Tasks: Lead strategic planning policy and shape the borough's future growth.
- Company: Rushmoor Borough Council, a small but ambitious local authority.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and influence the future of your community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile regeneration projects and local planning.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning, MRTPI status, and experience in planning policy.
The predicted salary is between 48256 - 55596 £ per year.
Location: Farnborough (Hybrid Working Available)
Salary: £48,256 – £55,596 + £2,400 allowance
Full Time | Permanent
At Rushmoor Borough Council, they may be small, but they are ambitious — and this is a genuinely exciting time to join. Significant regeneration and development is underway across Aldershot and Farnborough, with major projects such as the Galleries redevelopment, Farnborough Civic Quarter proposals, and a large-scale commercial masterplan set to transform the area.
Alongside this, the Council is delivering high-profile schemes including a new leisure centre, determining complex applications such as those at Farnborough Airport, and—crucially—embarking on the preparation of a brand new Local Plan. With the timetable now published, the programme is moving at pace: notice will be served in May, initial consultation will take place in June 2026, Gateway 1 is targeted for September, and a second consultation is planned for early 2027. This represents a rare opportunity to get involved at the very start of the process and play a central role in shaping the borough’s long-term strategy for growth.
All of this sits at the heart of the Council’s vision to deliver sustainable, high-quality, and well-designed development across the borough — making this an exceptional time to join as a Principal Planning Officer (Policy).
The Role
This is a key position within the planning team, offering the opportunity to lead on strategic planning policy and Local Plan preparation at a critical time. You will take responsibility for driving forward planning policy work, engaging with stakeholders, and ensuring the delivery of a robust and forward-thinking planning framework.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the preparation and review of the Local Plan and strategic planning policy documents
- Managing and commissioning evidence base studies
- Driving engagement with members, communities, developers and key stakeholders
- Representing the Council at Examinations in Public, appeals and inquiries
- Preparing and presenting reports to Cabinet, Council and senior leadership
- Managing consultation exercises and ensuring statutory compliance
- Working collaboratively with neighbouring authorities and partner organisations
- Supporting and deputising for the Planning Policy Service Manager
- Managing and mentoring junior members of the team
About You
We are looking for an experienced and motivated planning professional who can operate at a senior level and take ownership of complex policy work. You will have:
- A degree in Town Planning or related discipline
- MRTPI Chartered status (or eligibility)
- Proven experience in planning policy and Local Plan preparation
- Strong knowledge of UK planning legislation and policy frameworks
- Experience within a local authority planning environment
- Excellent communication, presentation and stakeholder engagement skills
- Strong organisational and project management ability
- Experience managing or mentoring staff (desirable)
You will be a confident and proactive individual, capable of influencing outcomes and driving forward key planning initiatives.
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary of £48,256 – £55,596 + £2,400 allowance
- Flexible and hybrid working
- The opportunity to lead on high-profile Local Plan and regeneration work
- A supportive and forward-thinking team environment
- The chance to play a key role in shaping the future growth of the borough
- Ongoing professional development and career progression
The Opportunity
This is a rare opportunity to take a leading role in shaping the planning policy of a borough undergoing significant transformation and growth. If you’re looking to step into a role where you can make a genuine impact and influence the future of places — this is it.
Apply
For a confidential discussion or to apply, please contact: Rob Hanks Futuregen Recruitment Email: Mobile: 07855 276123
Principal Planning Officer (Policy) in Southampton employer: Rushmoor Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Rushmoor Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer (Policy) in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the planning sector. Attend local events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council’s current projects and policies. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for their vision and how you can contribute to their ambitious plans for Farnborough and Aldershot.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! As a Principal Planning Officer, you’ll need to present reports and engage with stakeholders. Grab a friend or family member and run through your ideas. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll shine in interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in planning policy. Let’s shape the future together!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer (Policy) in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Principal Planning Officer. We want to see how you can contribute to our ambitious projects and the Local Plan preparation.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your skills in planning policy and stakeholder engagement. We’re looking for someone who can lead and influence, so let us know how you've done this in your previous roles!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important details about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rushmoor Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK planning legislation and policy frameworks. Familiarise yourself with the specific projects mentioned in the job description, like the Galleries redevelopment and the new Local Plan. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the role involves engaging with various stakeholders, think about how you can demonstrate your communication skills. Prepare examples of past experiences where you've successfully managed stakeholder relationships or led consultations. This will highlight your ability to drive engagement effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll be expected to manage and mentor junior staff. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've supported team members in the past. This will help convey your capability to lead and inspire others.
✨Prepare for Questions on Complex Policy Work
Expect questions about your experience with complex planning policy work and Local Plan preparation. Think of specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and readiness to take ownership of the role.