At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape Ipswich's vibrant town centre strategy and engage in exciting regeneration projects.
- Company: Join Ipswich Borough Council, a dynamic team focused on community growth and culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holidays, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate with local authorities and enjoy a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of Ipswich while developing your planning skills.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree or diploma in planning; passion for town centre policy and regeneration.
The predicted salary is between 39152 - 40777 € per year.
Ipswich Borough Council Address: Grafton House 15-17 Russell Road, Ipswich IP1 2DE
Salary: £39,152 - £40,777 per annum
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Reference: 0743
This is an exciting opportunity to join Ipswich Borough Council at the start of Local Plan making journey under the new plan‑making system and progress a programme of town centre regeneration. Following a re‑structure and in light of these exciting workstreams, we are looking to expand our team with motivated, ambitious Planner.
Ipswich is one of the fastest growing regional centres in England and is the largest centre in Suffolk for business, culture, entertainment and sports. A university town with a rich culture, heritage, elite sports teams and a thriving Waterfront. It is well connected to London and other parts of the country through strategic rail and road links. The town is entering an important period, with the Council prioritising the delivery of a Town Centre Strategy and supporting the Ipswich City of Culture bid. Backed by successful Towns Fund investment and a strong regeneration pipeline, Ipswich offers a unique opportunity to help shape a vibrant, resilient and culturally rich town centre.
The role primarily involves shaping a new people‑centred Town Centre Strategy and the preparation of evidence base studies, monitoring and engagement to progress into the next Ipswich Local Plan, which is due to commence in 2026. By joining us now, you will play a key role from the earliest stages. There is also significant opportunity to work collaboratively with neighbouring local authorities and Suffolk County Council on strategic planning matters.
This role will allow the successful candidate the opportunity to further develop their skill set providing analysis and working to support other officers; report writing; project management; the opportunity to write guidance to expand on planning policy, and to get involved in helping to deliver allocations and regeneration by working with developers and site owners as well as input into master‑planning larger sites. In addition, the role will also afford the opportunity to work closely with the Council’s busy Development Management team.
We’re looking for a motivated and proactive Town Planner with:
- a relevant degree or post graduate diploma or an NVQ Level 6 qualification in planning or a relevant field ideally Local Plan making experience.
- In the context of a strong corporate emphasis on town centre regeneration and growth, we are keen to hear from candidates with experience of, or a strong interest in, town centre policy, regeneration and place‑based planning.
- Effective project management and workload skills with a genuine passion for improving our built environment are a must.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with key stakeholders are essential.
As well as a good salary, we offer:
- a career grade average pension scheme
- generous holiday and sick pay entitlements
- subsidised parking for work and leisure
- public transport discounts
- free swimming and gym membership
- cycle purchase scheme
- plenty of personal and professional development opportunities
- flexible working / hybrid working opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme
- the opportunity to work with great colleagues.
To find out more, please contact either Anna Roe, Planning Policy Team Leader, by either calling 01473 432911 or emailing anna.roe@ipswich.gov.uk or Matt Deakin by either calling 01473 432490 or emailing matt.deakin@ipswich.gov.uk.
Please read the Job Description and Personal Specification (pdf) to find out more about this role.
How to apply: To apply, please visit our Ambition Ipswich website where you can complete the online application form for this vacancy. If you require any assistance or reasonable adjustments during the application or recruitment process, please let us know so that the appropriate arrangements can be put in place.
The selection process will involve an on‑site assessment test for candidates who are selected for interview. Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to interview candidates who meet the essential criteria prior to the closing date and / or to close the opportunity to applicants once we receive sufficient applications. Please note CVs (Curriculum Vitae) are not accepted.
Closing date: 14 June 2026.
Interview date: Week commencing 29 June 2026 at Grafton House, Ipswich.
Planning Officer Ipswich, Suffolk, United Kingdom Posted on 05/13/2026 Be the First to Apply employer: Suffolk County Council
Ipswich Borough Council is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can contribute to the exciting regeneration of Ipswich's town centre. With a strong focus on employee development, flexible working options, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous holiday entitlements and public transport discounts, you will thrive in a supportive culture that values collaboration and innovation. Join us at this pivotal moment in shaping a vibrant community while enjoying the rich cultural heritage and connectivity of Ipswich.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Officer Ipswich, Suffolk, United Kingdom Posted on 05/13/2026 Be the First to Apply
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Ipswich Borough Council and its current projects. Familiarise yourself with their Town Centre Strategy and regeneration plans. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn to get insider info about the team and the work culture. This can give you an edge in understanding what they value in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the on-site assessment test by brushing up on your project management skills and planning knowledge. Practise common scenarios you might face in the role, so you can demonstrate your problem-solving abilities effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our Ambition Ipswich website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, if you need any adjustments during the process, just let them know – they’re there to help!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Officer Ipswich, Suffolk, United Kingdom Posted on 05/13/2026 Be the First to Apply
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. We want to see that you understand the role and how your skills align with what we're looking for.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates personalise their applications to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the Planning Officer role. Show us why you're the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our Ambition Ipswich website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your Local Plan
Familiarise yourself with the current and upcoming Local Plan initiatives in Ipswich. Understand the key objectives of the Town Centre Strategy and how your role as a Planning Officer will contribute to these goals. This knowledge will show your genuine interest and commitment to the position.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your project management abilities. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed workloads, collaborated with stakeholders, and delivered projects on time. This is crucial for demonstrating your fit for a role that involves significant project oversight.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you would approach collaboration with various stakeholders, including developers and local authorities. Prepare to discuss strategies for effective communication and engagement, as this is essential for the role and will reflect your proactive attitude.
✨Passion for Regeneration
Express your enthusiasm for town centre regeneration and place-based planning. Share your ideas on how to improve the built environment in Ipswich and be prepared to discuss any relevant experiences or projects that demonstrate your passion and understanding of urban development.
