To be responsible for the processing and determination of a varied and complex caseload of planning applications (including major development – economic, inward investment, change of use and residential schemes) across Somerset, through negotiation with developers and their agents, considering third party comments, liaising with members and drafting reports to Planning Committee and for delegated decisions.
To provide support and guidance to planning officers and consultees dealing with the processing of planning applications, undertaking monitoring and compliance functions and other planning functions to meet agreed timescales, make robust decisions, and deliver appropriate development. To prepare appeal statements and attend hearings and public enquiries as expert witness in connection with planning and enforcement appeals, to represent the Local Planning Authority and defend its decisions.
To respond promptly to enquiries from developers, members and the public on a range of development matters to ensure an efficient and reliable service is provided taking account of relevant legislation, case law policies and the procedures of the Council.
Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, organisational policy, and professional codes of conduct to uphold standards of best practice reflecting these for the team
Deliver the aims of the council’s equality, diversity and inclusion policies; health, safety and wellbeing of self and others; and Organisational values in everything you do, ensuring team members are also aware of their responsibilities and maintaining their understanding that Equality and Diversity practice covers both interaction with staff, service users and communities. This includes challenging discrimination and promoting equality of opportunity for all.
To work as part of the Council’s wider planning service, to process applications for a wide range of development schemes including major planning applications and those of a more complex nature, undertaking negotiations with developers and their agents, whilst balancing material considerations, site constraints, planning policy and third party comments.
Drafting reports to Planning Committee and for delegated decisions taking account of relevant legislation, case law, appeal decisions, policies, and the procedures of the Council.
To provide professional support and guidance to planning officers engaged in the processing of applications for planning permission, listed building consent, notifications, conservation area consent, advertisement consent and monitoring and compliance activities. This includes the carrying out of site inspections, drafting reports and recommendations, and negotiating with applicants/agents in accordance with procedures, good practice, and performance targets.
To attend Planning Committee meetings and present oral reports to the Committee on development management matters and take all necessary following action.
To prepare appeal statements or proofs of evidence, and to act as expert witness for the Local Planning Authority, in connection with planning and enforcement appeals, public inquiries, informal hearings and court hearings as required. In addition, where necessary to prepare for and participate in court proceedings to secure compliance with planning legislation and/or prosecution.
To process planning applications, as appropriate, including meeting applicants and developers, undertaking site visits, and to examine, report and make recommendations on such planning applications, certificates of lawfulness, proposals, and related matters to Planning Committee or through delegated processes as appropriate.
Assessing the planning merits and providing reports to Planning Committee and delegated decisions as directed by the Service Manager. Assessing the planning merits of potential enforcement and compliance cases and to undertake negotiation with all interested parties on compliance matters to establish actions which result in solutions or resolution with a clear emphasis on continuous improvement, performance delivery and providing the highest standards of customer service.
Teqniq Limited
Taunton TA1 4DY
Full-time
Contact Detail:
Teqniq Ltd Recruiting Team
