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- Tasks: Lead high-profile planning projects and manage complex applications with a supportive team.
- Company: Join Cotswold District Council, dedicated to creating vibrant communities and sustainable growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, health cash plan, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping communities while developing your planning career in a collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: Must have a planning degree, RTPI membership eligibility, and over 5 years of relevant experience.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; we encourage applications from all backgrounds and guarantee interviews for disabled applicants.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 43000 £ per year.
Senior Planning Officer
SAFE Consulting Group – Cirencester, United Kingdom
Salary: £39,883 – £43,040 per annum, 37 hours per week.
Contract: Permanent.
Work Hours: 37 hours per week, hybrid working (expect to be in the office at least two days per week).
Location: Cirencester (within the Cotswold National Landscape).
Job Summary: As a Senior Planning Officer with Cotswold District Council you will help shape the future of one of the most distinctive and desirable areas in the UK. Working within rolling designated Cotswold National Landscape, picturesque market towns, and a strong sense of community pride, you will handle a mix of complex planning applications, mentoring Assistant Planners, and engaging stakeholders such as parish councils, planning consultants and technical consultees. You will also contribute to an improvement programme, reviewing processes, shaping new ways of working and delivering a more efficient and responsive service.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess and decide on complex planning applications, ensuring compliance with national and local planning policy.
- Mentor and support Assistant Planners, fostering their professional growth.
- Build strong relationships with members, consultants, parish councils and technical consultees.
- Participate in the development of initiatives to improve efficiency, quality and responsiveness of the Planning Service.
- Present and negotiate outcomes to stakeholders, maintaining a calm and confident approach in challenging circumstances.
Qualifications & Experience
- A planning or related degree.
- Full membership eligibility of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
- Substantial relevant professional experience – at least 5 years is preferred, though 3 years will be considered for a step‑up.
- Experience working flexibly as part of a team and collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders.
- Experience in continuous service improvement and product development to meet customer needs.
- Ability to remain calm and confident when dealing with challenging customers and environments.
Special Conditions
- Full UK driving licence.
- Access to a vehicle for work purposes.
- This is a politically restricted appointment in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989 and related regulations.
Benefits
- Agile working – mix of home and office.
- Flexible working arrangements (depending on the role).
- 27 days paid annual leave (pro‑rated for part‑time staff). 30 days after five years of service.
- Two extra volunteering days per year to support a charity of your choice.
- Health cash plan – cash‑back on health, dental and eye care.
- Generous contributory local government pension scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 counselling).
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Salary‑sacrifice car lease scheme (significant tax/NI savings on electric cars).
- Generous sickness cover above statutory entitlements.
About the Organisation
We are committed to putting people first – the businesses, communities and residents of the Cotswold. We are building a council designed for success, focused on delivering good services, responding to the climate emergency, supporting local communities and evolving the district’s vibrant economy.
We are an accredited disability confident scheme; we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria. If you are a disabled applicant, please include this information in your covering statement or send a separate email.
Recruitment Process
Safer recruitment practices are applied to all job vacancies. Successful candidates will need to complete a pre‑employment medical questionnaire; provide references; proof of identity; nationality and immigration status; three years employment or education history (if applicable); and, in some cases, verification of criminal record.
Advert Closing Date: 13th January 2026.
Interview Dates: 23rd and 30th January 2026.
How to Apply: Please apply via the official SAFE Consulting Group career portal. For any enquiries, contact the Hiring Manager at hr@safeconsultinggroup.co.uk.
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Senior Planning Officer employer: SAFE Consulting Group
Contact Detail:
SAFE Consulting Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific planning policies and projects in Cirencester. Understanding local issues and priorities will help you demonstrate your commitment to the community during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Cotswold District Council. They can provide valuable insights into the team culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of your experience with complex planning applications and appeals. Be ready to discuss specific cases where you successfully navigated challenges, as this will showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively within a team. Since this role involves working closely with others, demonstrating your teamwork skills and how you've contributed to successful projects in the past will be crucial.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Senior Planning Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: In your supporting statement, clearly outline your relevant experience in planning, particularly with pre-application enquiries, complex applications, and appeals. Use specific examples to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and how you've successfully managed similar projects.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to mention your planning or related degree and your eligibility for full Membership of the RTPI. If you have more than five years of relevant professional experience, emphasise this to showcase your expertise.
Showcase Your Motivation: Explain why you want to work for Cotswold District Council and what aspects of the role excite you. This is your chance to convey your passion for planning and how you can contribute to the council's goals and community development.
How to prepare for a job interview at SAFE Consulting Group
✨Showcase Your Planning Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in handling complex planning applications and appeals. Highlight specific cases where you successfully navigated challenges, as this will demonstrate your capability and expertise in the field.
✨Understand the Council's Priorities
Research Cotswold District Council's current projects and priorities. Being knowledgeable about their strategic urban extension in Cirencester and affordable housing initiatives will show your genuine interest in contributing to their goals.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've resolved complex issues through negotiation or innovative solutions. This role requires a proactive approach, so showcasing your ability to think critically and adapt will be crucial.
✨Express Your Motivation
Articulate why you want to work for Cotswold District Council specifically. Share what aspects of their planning service resonate with you and how you envision contributing to their mission of creating great places for communities.
