The Development Management team at Somerset Council is recruiting a permanent Senior Planning Officer to determine complex planning applications, including major developments. The post involves negotiating with applicants and stakeholders, presenting cases to Planning Committee and representing the council at appeals and inquiries, while supporting other planning officers. Hours and patterns vary by office, with full-time, part-time and flexible options and hybrid working of one to two days in the office each week. No visa sponsorship is offered, so applicants must already have UK right to work.
What the job involves
- Manage and determine a complex caseload of planning applications, including major developments
- Negotiate with applicants and stakeholders to achieve compliant development
- Prepare reports and present cases to Planning Committee
- Represent the Council at appeals and inquiries
- Provide professional guidance to planning officers and support colleagues
What's required
Qualifications
- Degree in planning or a related subject
- RTPI membership or eligibility
Experience
- Significant experience in development management
Skills & knowledge
- Strong understanding of planning policy and practice
- Sound judgement and confidence to make well-informed decisions on complex cases
- Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver high-quality work under pressure
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a practical, solution-focused approach
- Resilience, professionalism and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
Checks & eligibility
- Right to work in the UK without the need for visa sponsorship
What's offered
- 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible and hybrid working, with 1-2 days per week in the office
- Part-time and flexible working patterns considered
- Health and wellbeing support, including confidential employee assistance
- Paid volunteering opportunities
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Contact Details:
The Methodist Church in Britain Recruitment Team
