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- Tasks: Assist in shaping the future of planning within South Downs National Park.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at SDNPA focused on sustainable development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local planning and contribute to exciting new projects.
- Qualifications: Detail-oriented with strong communication skills; planning experience is a plus.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with a commitment to diversity and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 28540 - 31127 £ per year.
Location: South Downs Centre, Midhurst (Hybrid Working)
Closing Date: 25 January 2026
Interview Date: 5 February 2026
Salary: £28,540 to £31,127
Hours: 37 hours per week
Type of post: Permanent
Are you interested in a career in planning, helping to influence how development happens within South Downs National Park? Are you good at chasing down information and statistics and presenting information clearly? Do you like designing and implementing systems that organise information and make it easily available to users? Are you reliable, organised and good with detail, but can also communicate that information to others? If so, then this could be the perfect job for you.
An exciting opportunity has arisen within SDNPAs Planning Policy Team to contribute to our South Downs Local Plan Review, which will be published for its final consultation and submitted for examination in 2026. As Planning Policy Assistant, you will play a vital role in finalising this Local Plan, carrying out the consultation and assisting the team in preparing for and participating in the Local Plan examination.
We will also be starting work on minerals and waste plans under the new plan-making system being introduced in 2026, so you will have an opportunity to participate in the first generation of these new 30-month plans and help make the legislation work in practice. It is an exciting time to be a policy planner!
Provided you meet the minimum criteria, you will also have the opportunity to gain or improve your qualifications to progress a career in planning.
Does this sound like something that interests you? Do you think you meet the person specification and can make this role your own? Then please apply!
To apply: Please apply via the button shown to upload your CV and complete our application, referring to the person specification.
SDNPA is an inclusive organisation, and we welcome applications from everyone irrespective of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, faith and religion, disability, and age. We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS) for disabled applicants. In all circumstances, the SDNPA appoints on merit, based on the evidence the applicant supplies in meeting the essential criteria for the post. Further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion can be found on our website.
SDNPA Enhanced Benefits:
- Flexible working (this is available for the majority of our roles. However, some positions may require on-site presence and/or specific hours due to business needs)
- Local government pension scheme
- Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme
- Heat Scheme (capped interest-free green home improvement loan, available on a first-come, first-served basis)
- Healthcare, includes cash plan, counselling and wellbeing discounts
- Access to Health and Wellbeing portal and webinars
- 27 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days, plus bank holidays
- Professional development support
- Cycle to work scheme
- Car sharing
- Use of pool cars
- Regular staff events/activities, which support the SDNPAs Purposes and Duty
Planning Policy Assistant in Midhurst employer: South Downs National Park Authority
Contact Detail:
South Downs National Park Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Policy Assistant in Midhurst
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company and its values! Research the South Downs National Park Authority and understand their mission. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Planning Policy Assistant, you'll need to present information clearly. Try mock interviews with friends or family, focusing on how you explain complex ideas simply and effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with professionals in the planning field through LinkedIn or local events. Building relationships can lead to insider tips about job openings and give you a leg up when applying.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the role of Planning Policy Assistant.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Policy Assistant in Midhurst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Planning Policy Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the job description, especially your ability to chase down information and present it clearly.
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for planning and the South Downs National Park! In your application, mention why this role excites you and how you can contribute to the Local Plan Review.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out the application, keep your answers clear and to the point. We appreciate well-organised information, so make it easy for us to see how you meet the person specification.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to upload your CV seamlessly.
How to prepare for a job interview at South Downs National Park Authority
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Familiarise yourself with the South Downs Local Plan and any recent updates. Being able to discuss specific policies and how they impact development will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully organised information or systems in the past. This could be through projects, work experience, or even personal initiatives. Highlighting your attention to detail will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Practice Clear Communication
Since the role involves presenting information clearly, practice explaining complex ideas in simple terms. You might want to do a mock interview with a friend where you explain planning concepts to them as if they were unfamiliar with the topic.
✨Engage with Current Issues
Stay updated on current planning issues, especially those affecting the South Downs National Park. Being able to discuss these topics during your interview will demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the field.
