At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning projects and manage complex applications in a beautiful location.
- Company: Join Westmorland and Furness Council, a new unitary council with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, enhanced leave, and various perks.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a stunning area while advancing your planning career.
- Qualifications: Qualified planner with experience in leading teams and managing complex cases.
The predicted salary is between 47181 - 48226 £ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Job reference: REQ00000020059
Date posted: 27/05/2026
Application closing date: 14/06/2026
Location: Kendal
Salary: £47,181–£48,226
Contractual hours: 37
Basis: Full time
Location: Barrow 1FTE / Kendal 1FTE
Contract Type: Permanent
About this opportunity:
Westmorland and Furness Council is a new unitary Council combining Barrow-in-Furness, Eden and South Lakeland districts. The new Council planning area is adjacent to two national parks, including the stunning Lake District National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as western parts of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The national parks offer a rich tapestry of lakes, mountains and countryside, which offer extensive outdoor opportunities, whilst the towns and villages brim with local character. With friendly communities, low crime rate, cultural attractions and stunning locations, Westmorland and Furness Council makes an attractive proposition for one and all.
Who we are looking for:
Westmorland and Furness Council is seeking to recruit a Principal Planning Officer (Development Management). You will be responsible for signing off delegated reports, attending and supporting planning committees as well as managing a case load of more complex planning applications. You will need experience of dealing with appeals and public inquiries. You will also need to have strong experience in successfully leading and motivating teams of planning professionals and will need to be a qualified planner and Chartered member of the RTPI. As a Principal Planning Officer, you will be responsible for advising on the more complex planning cases and working with the Area Manager to ensure the efficient and effective management of the planning process. The successful candidate will need to possess a relevant degree or qualification and have previous relevant experience. They will require good IT skills and have the ability to research case law and good practice in the further development of this area of work.
What can we offer you:
Working at Westmorland and Furness Council, you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes.
Would you like to find out more?
If you have any queries about this role or would like an informal chat about this opportunity, then please contact Nick Howard, Senior Development Manager, via email Nick.Howard@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk to arrange an informal conversation.
Application and Interview information:
Interview date: TBC. We are currently operating both in-person and virtual interviews. Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.
Safer Recruitment & DBS:
At Westmorland and Furness Council, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety and welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and we expect all workers, employees and volunteers to share our commitment.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:
Westmorland and Furness Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from everyone and work to promote an inclusive, supportive culture that values and celebrates our differences. As a Disability Confident Leader, disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria of this job are guaranteed an interview. We also offer guaranteed interviews to Armed Forces personnel and veterans and those in care or care experienced and under 24 years old that meet the essential criteria for the role.
Principal Planning Officer - WMF2965e in Kendal employer: The Cumbria County Council
Westmorland and Furness Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture in the breathtaking surroundings of Kendal, adjacent to the stunning Lake District National Park. Employees benefit from a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave, and various perks, all while contributing to meaningful community development in a friendly environment that values diversity and promotes professional growth.
Contact Details:
The Cumbria County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer - WMF2965e in Kendal
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the planning field, especially those who might have insights into Westmorland and Furness Council. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the council’s recent projects and challenges. Show us you’re genuinely interested in the role and how you can contribute to their goals. It’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to managing complex planning applications and leading teams. We want to see your experience shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the council there.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer - WMF2965e in Kendal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experience align with the role of Principal Planning Officer. We want to see how you can contribute to our team at Westmorland and Furness Council!
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t hold back on sharing your relevant experience, especially in dealing with complex planning applications and leading teams. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you've achieved!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role. Remember, clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Cumbria County Council
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your planning knowledge, especially around complex cases and appeals. Familiarise yourself with local planning policies and recent developments in the area, as this will show your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll need to lead and motivate teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, highlighting any challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life planning situations. Think about how you would approach various planning applications or public inquiries, and be ready to discuss your thought process and decision-making.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask. This could be about the council's future projects or how they measure success in the planning department. It shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
