Principal Enforcement Officer - Planning Enforcement in London

Principal Enforcement Officer - Planning Enforcement in London

London Full-Time 55 - 55 £ / hour (est.) No working from home possible
The Oyster Partnership

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead complex planning enforcement cases and drive impactful outcomes.
  • Company: Local Authority in South East England with a focus on community development.
  • Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, hybrid working, and opportunity for immediate start.
  • Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in planning enforcement while enjoying flexible work arrangements.
  • Qualifications: Significant experience in Planning Enforcement and strong stakeholder management skills.

The predicted salary is between 55 - 55 £ per hour.

We are currently working with a Local Authority in the South East of England seeking an experienced Principal Enforcement Officer to support their Planning Enforcement function on an interim basis. This is a key role within the team, requiring an individual who can independently manage a complex caseload, provide senior-level expertise, and drive enforcement outcomes across a varied portfolio of cases.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage a caseload of complex planning enforcement cases, including high-profile and sensitive matters
  • Investigate alleged breaches of planning control, including site inspections (2 days per week)
  • Prepare and serve enforcement notices, breach of condition notices, stop notices, and related legal documentation
  • Provide professional advice on planning enforcement legislation, policy, and procedures
  • Manage cases through to resolution, including appeals, prosecutions, and court proceedings where required
  • Engage with stakeholders including residents, developers, legal teams, and elected members
  • Support the wider service with process improvements and mentoring junior staff where appropriate

Candidate Requirements

  • Significant experience within Planning Enforcement, ideally at Senior or Principal level
  • Proven track record of managing complex and contentious enforcement cases within a Local Authority setting
  • Strong working knowledge of UK planning legislation, enforcement powers, and appeals processes
  • Experience preparing robust reports and legal documentation
  • Ability to work autonomously while managing competing priorities
  • Confident communicator with strong stakeholder management skills

Working Arrangements

  • £50-£55 per hour (Inside IR35)
  • 6-month rolling contract
  • Hybrid working: 2 days per week on-site for inspections, remainder remote
  • Immediate / short notice start preferred
The Oyster Partnership

Contact Details:

The Oyster Partnership Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Enforcement Officer - Planning Enforcement in London

Planning Enforcement
Case Management
Site Inspections
Legal Documentation Preparation
UK Planning Legislation Knowledge
Enforcement Powers Understanding
Appeals Process Knowledge