At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a busy caseload of planning applications and collaborate with various stakeholders.
- Company: Charnwood Borough Council, a dynamic and diverse local authority.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, flexible working, professional development, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Clear career progression pathways and opportunities for RTPI accreditation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable growth and community development in Charnwood.
- Qualifications: Experience in development management, strong communication skills, and a valid UK driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 32061 - 44075 £ per year.
Salary: Career Grade 5 – MGT1 (SCP 119-133) £32,061 - £44,075 Plus essential car user allowance and a £2500 market supplement per year until 31 March 2029. (Progression to SO1 subject to RTPI membership. Progression to MGT1 subject to supervision of junior staff and increased responsibilities as defined in the Scheme of Delegation.)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week
Closing date: 21st June 2026
Charnwood Borough Council are seeking a dynamic, motivated and organised planning professional to manage a busy caseload and meet government targets.
You’ll bring:
- Recent experience in development management
- Strong report writing and case handling skills
- Excellent communication and negotiation abilities
- A proactive, solution‑focused mindset
- A commitment to delivering outstanding customer service
- A valid UK driving licence and access to your own transport is essential for site visits across the borough.
The Role:
You’ll be part of a skilled development management team, handling a varied caseload of planning applications – from householders to major developments, depending on your experience. You’ll collaborate across departments, with elected members and external partners, gaining valuable experience and making a real impact. This career‑graded post offers a clear path for progression. At the top of the scale, you’ll manage complex applications and supervise a Planning Assistant. Whether you’re an experienced Planning Officer ready for the next step, or a Senior Planning Officer looking to grow your leadership skills, this role is designed to support your journey. Progression is linked to RTPI membership and defined responsibilities, with clear criteria for advancement.
What you’ll gain:
- Support from a friendly, experienced Planning and Growth team
- Diverse projects across urban and rural landscapes
- Opportunities to shape sustainable growth, protect heritage, and enhance biodiversity
- A chance to influence the future of Loughborough, a hub of innovation and learning
- Supportive, collaborative culture where your voice matters
- Engage with councillors, developers and communities to deliver inclusive planning outcomes
- Work for a council that values transparency, integrity and public service
- Access to training, mentoring and support for RTPI/IHBC/CIEEM accreditation
- Clear career progression pathways
- Hybrid working options and flexible hours to support your work‑life balance
- Generous annual leave, pension scheme and wellbeing initiatives
- A modern, inclusive workplace that celebrates diversity
- Access to Continuous Professional Development
- A chance to make a meaningful impact on the places and people of Charnwood
Please ensure your application clearly demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.
About Us
Charnwood is a dynamic and diverse borough of 180,000 residents, nestled between Leicester, Nottingham and Derby. At its heart is Loughborough – a thriving university town known for its innovation, culture and community spirit. Surrounding it are charming towns and villages set in stunning countryside.
Why Charnwood?
We have recently adopted our new Local Plan, which charts a bold course for growth through sustainable urban extensions, regeneration zones, and the UK’s largest science and enterprise park. Alongside this, we’re developing a Community Infrastructure Levy, a suite of Supplementary Planning Documents, and a Design Code. Now is the perfect time to join us and help deliver this exciting vision.
Benefits of working with us:
- Agile working options – including home working
- Generous annual leave (35.5 to 40.5 days including bank holidays)
- Most services close over Christmas
- Professional development opportunities
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Free parking
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and hold the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Gold Award. We support staff wellbeing and engagement through internal groups such as the Staff Forum, Health and Wellbeing Group, and Equality Working Group.
Shape the future of Charnwood – where innovation meets heritage.
Find out more about this role and our team: https://www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/planningcareers
No Agencies please.
Planning / Senior Planning Officer in Loughborough employer: The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
Charnwood Borough Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that values transparency and public service. With a focus on professional development, employees benefit from clear career progression pathways, generous annual leave, and flexible working options, all while making a meaningful impact on the vibrant community of Loughborough. Join us to shape sustainable growth and enhance the heritage of this dynamic borough, where your contributions truly matter.
Contact Details:
The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning / Senior Planning Officer in Loughborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the planning field. Attend local events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council and its recent projects. Show us you’re genuinely interested in Charnwood’s vision and how you can contribute. Tailor your answers to highlight your experience in development management and your commitment to outstanding customer service.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Planning Officer, you’ll need to negotiate and collaborate effectively. Role-play common interview scenarios with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in Charnwood.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning / Senior Planning Officer in Loughborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your recent experience in development management. We want to see how you've handled planning applications and what skills you've developed along the way.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. This shows us you’re genuinely interested in the role.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and local development plans. Familiarise yourself with Charnwood's recent projects and challenges, as this will show your genuine interest in the role and the borough.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your report writing and case handling skills. Think of situations where you've successfully navigated complex applications or resolved disputes, as these will highlight your problem-solving abilities.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Since excellent communication is key in this role, consider doing mock interviews with a friend to refine your negotiation and interpersonal skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, and future challenges facing the planning department. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career goals.
