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- Tasks: Join the Strategic Planning Team to develop local policies and manage exciting projects.
- Company: Spelthorne Borough Council is dedicated to improving community planning and development in North Surrey.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, remote work options, a pension scheme, and at least 23 days of paid leave.
- Why this job: This role offers a great work-life balance and the chance to make a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: Ideal for graduates or those returning to work; knowledge of Local Plan systems and GIS skills are a plus.
- Other info: Essential car user allowance and a valid driving licence required for this hybrid role.
The predicted salary is between 27683 - 42659 £ per year.
Contract Type: 1-year Fixed TermSalary: £27,683 – £42,659 per annumPartner Org: Spelthorne Borough Council
Planning Officer (Policy) 1-year Fixed Term
Full-time 36 hours
Salary £27,683 – £42,659 p.a Plus essential car user allowance
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Strategic Planning Team at Spelthorne Borough Council, which is responsible for preparing a new Local Plan and supporting policies, along with a number of strategic projects. This flexible hybrid role will be a challenging but rewarding position for a graduate planner, someone looking to return to work after a career break or an existing Planning Officer looking to broaden their experience. It offers the opportunity for a great work-life balance for the successful candidate.
Spelthorne is located in North Surrey and borders London and Heathrow Airport, so we encounter a range of issues, including high levels of housing need, including affordable housing, pressure to release the Green Belt for development, flooding, a broad mix of employment uses and the regeneration of our key town centre, Staines-upon-Thames. In a time of change for Planning and local government reorganisation, the post will involve a diverse range of work, including playing a key role in supporting the work of the Strategic Planning Team in a diverse range of strategic projects.
The successful candidate will need to have a flexible approach to work and have excellent engagement, problem-solving solving and communication skills with a good knowledge of the Local Plan system and relevant legislation. Web-based skills and experience of using GIS, consultation and engagement software would be a particular advantage.
This post is identified as a hybrid post supporting both office and home working in line with Spelthorne Borough Council’s policy. The post holder will be required to attend the office in line with a rota and any service requirements.
The ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for customer-facing posts. These posts fall within the scope of the Code of Practice on English language requirements for public sector workers. The Council, therefore, has a statutory duty under Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 to ensure that post holders have a command of spoken English sufficient for the effective performance of the job requirements. If you have any queries or would like to discuss this further, please contact Human Resources.
Please note that as part of the employment checks, this post has an essential car user allowance attached to it. A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use will be required.
For more information on this position, please contact Laura Richardson, Strategic Planning and Projects Manager, on 01784 448594 or email l.richardson@spelthorne.gov.uk
In return, we can offer excellent conditions of service with a benefits package that includes flexible working hours, working from home opportunities, pension scheme, free parking and at least 23 days’ paid leave per year (pro rata).
Closing date: Friday 15 August 2025 (noon)
Interview: To be confirmed
For full information and to apply online, go to www.surreyjobs.info or www.spelthorne.gov.uk. Alternatively, please contact Recruitment Services on (01784 444263 (24hr answer phone) quoting reference number 1269.
Working towards equal opportunities
Strictly No Agencies
Planning Officer (Policy) - Knowle Grn, Staines employer: Spelthorne Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Spelthorne Borough Council Recruiting Team
l.richardson@spelthorne.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Officer (Policy) - Knowle Grn, Staines
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Local Plan system and relevant legislation. Understanding the specific challenges faced by Spelthorne, such as housing needs and Green Belt issues, will help you demonstrate your knowledge during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your web-based skills and experience with GIS and consultation software. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these tools in past roles or projects, as they are particularly advantageous for this position.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with current planning issues in the area by following local news and council updates. This will not only enhance your understanding but also provide you with talking points that can impress during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to demonstrate your problem-solving and communication skills through examples from your previous experiences. Being able to articulate how you've effectively engaged with stakeholders will be crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Officer (Policy) - Knowle Grn, Staines
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Planning Officer (Policy) position. Highlight key skills such as problem-solving, communication, and knowledge of the Local Plan system.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise any previous planning roles, projects you've worked on, and your familiarity with GIS and consultation software.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for planning and your understanding of the challenges faced by Spelthorne Borough Council. Mention specific examples of how your skills can contribute to their strategic projects.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that your documents are clear, concise, and professional, as attention to detail is crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Spelthorne Borough Council
✨Understand the Local Plan System
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the Local Plan system and relevant legislation. Brush up on recent changes and how they impact planning in your area, as this will show your commitment and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled complex issues in previous roles or projects. The role requires excellent problem-solving abilities, so demonstrating your analytical thinking will be key to impressing the interviewers.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Since the position involves customer-facing interactions, be ready to discuss your experience in engaging with stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, as effective communication is essential for this role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with GIS and Consultation Tools
If you have experience with GIS or consultation software, be sure to mention it. If not, consider doing a bit of research or even a quick online course to understand these tools better, as they are advantageous for the role.