At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of planners and manage complex planning applications.
- Company: Join Westmorland and Furness Council in a stunning location.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pension, enhanced leave, and various perks.
- Other info: Embrace a supportive culture that values diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in beautiful surroundings while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Qualified planner with experience in leading teams and managing cases.
The predicted salary is between 47181 - 48226 £ per year.
Location: Barrow in Furness
Contract Type: Permanent
About this opportunity
Would you like to live and work in one of the most beautiful parts of the country? 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). The successful applicant will be responsible for managing a team of planners in the Development Management area. 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 they 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?
For further information about this role, such as responsibilities and essential criteria please view the below attachments: Post Specification Role Profile Application and Interview information.
Closing date: 28th June 2026
Interview date: w/c 6th July 2026
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. If you experience any technical difficulties applying for this role, please contact the HR Systems Team at HR.Systems@cumbria.gov.uk
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.
Principle Planning Officer - WMF2966e employer: The Cumbria County Council
Westmorland and Furness Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture in the picturesque setting of Barrow-in-Furness. With a commitment to employee growth, competitive benefits including a generous pension scheme and enhanced annual leave, and the opportunity to work in a vibrant community surrounded by stunning national parks, this role as Principal Planning Officer promises a fulfilling career path for those passionate about planning and development.
Contact Details:
The Cumbria County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principle Planning Officer - WMF2966e
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Westmorland and Furness Council, their projects, and their values. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to planning management and team leadership. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your skills in managing complex planning applications and leading teams. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to leave a positive impression and keep you on their radar.
We think you need these skills to ace Principle Planning Officer - WMF2966e
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Principal Planning Officer. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t hold back on sharing your relevant experience, especially in managing teams and dealing with complex planning cases. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you've done!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to explore more about us!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Cumbria County Council
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and case law relevant to the role. Being able to discuss recent developments in planning management will show that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll be managing a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led and motivated teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them to inspire your team.
✨Prepare for Complex Scenarios
Expect questions about handling complex planning applications and appeals. Have a few case studies ready where you navigated tricky situations, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet.
✨Engage with the Community Aspect
Westmorland and Furness Council values community engagement. Be ready to discuss how you would involve local communities in the planning process and any previous experiences you have in fostering community relations.
