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- Tasks: Lead planning policy initiatives and shape sustainable development in Neath Port Talbot.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to creating a greener future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local communities and the environment.
- Qualifications: Planning qualification to RTPI standard or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 40777 - 45091 £ per year.
Permanent (37 Hours a Week) Salary: £40,777 - £45,091 per annum (Plus Market Supplement)
Planning and Public Protection – The Quays, Baglan Energy Park, Neath
Do you want to be a part of our growing team to help create a greener more sustainable future for Neath Port Talbot? We are offering an exciting opportunity to join Team NPT on our mission to make Neath Port Talbot a place where people are proud to live, learn, work, and raise their families. Neath Port Talbot is currently the subject of unprecedented investment interest from both the public and private sector. With our partners, we have secured the Celtic Freeport, which is now moving into its delivery phase and will support significant investment in clean energy, advanced manufacturing and port related development across the region.
This investment together with other major projects including the Global Centre of Rail Excellence and the Wildfox Adventure Resort will enable us to create a greener future not only for the natural environment but for our economy and our local communities. We are also playing our part in delivering the next generation of renewable energy with a combination of onshore wind farms, hydrogen generation and solar. Whilst many of these schemes will be classified as Significant Infrastructure Projects (SIPs), the Local Planning Authority still has a significant part to play. Planning policy remains central to managing these proposals, balancing national significance with local placemaking, infrastructure capacity and sustainable growth.
The development of sustainable communities is also critical to the future of NPT as we need sufficient numbers of homes to accommodate the growing economy. Neath Port Talbot council acknowledges the importance of the role planning has to play in the evolution of our economy and communities. As a consequence, we are investing in our planning service to ensure that we are ready to deliver. Do you want to be part of that team?
Neath Port Talbot is often perceived to be the industrial heartland of South Wales and whilst we are proud of our industrial heritage we have far more to offer. This beautiful part of south Wales is located between the cities of Swansea and Cardiff, close to the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons. Valleys and waterfalls, rivers and coastline provide a backdrop for many activities including walking, mountain biking and surfing. With over 140,000 residents and service users, this is a thriving area, rich in history, but with eyes fixed firmly on the future.
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a suitably qualified, experienced and self‑motivated individual to join a multi‑discipline Planning Policy team in Neath Port Talbot. As a Senior Policy Planner, you will support the team in a range of planning policy matters whilst playing a lead role in the preparation, monitoring and review of the Local Development Plan (LDP), including the formulation of statutory and non‑statutory planning policy, the production and commissioning of key evidence‑based documents, and the preparation of supplementary planning guidance and Community Infrastructure Levy‑related documents.
You will be required to prepare reports and make recommendations on a range of planning policy matters and to prepare and present evidence on behalf of the Council at Examinations in Public and Planning Appeals. The role will contribute to regional and sub‑regional collaboration, including the preparation of joint evidence studies, methodologies and commissioned research. The role will help shape the direction of strategic planning and candidates should have a proven track record of carrying out research, analysis and policy development across a range of planning portfolios.
You should demonstrate the ability to manage complex work programmes, deliver positive outcomes and promote sustainable development and growth, alongside experience of partnership working, public engagement and consultation.
About You
The successful candidate should demonstrate a sound knowledge of National Planning Policy and Legislation, in particular the Local Development Plan process, and be familiar with the workings of a professional planning office within local government. Candidates are required to hold a Planning qualification to RTPI standard or equivalent Planning Policy experience. If you think that you have the necessary experience and qualifications for this role, we would love to hear from you.
Further Info
Welsh language skills are not required but are desirable. This role operates on an agile hybrid working basis, with a minimum of two days per week based in the office.
For an informal discussion, please contact Lana Beynon, Planning Policy Manager on 01639 686314 or email l.beynon@npt.gov.uk.
How to Apply
You may apply online by clicking on the 'apply button' or contact the HR Employment Support Team by e-mail at jobs@npt.gov.uk or by telephone (01639) 686837 quoting the post title. Applications may be submitted in Welsh, applications submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English. Please ensure you refer to the criteria outlined in the Job Description and Person Specification when completing your application.
Closing Date: 31st May 2026
Senior Policy Planner in Neath employer: The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
Contact Detail:
The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Policy Planner in Neath
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the planning and public protection sectors, especially those connected to Neath Port Talbot. Attend local events or webinars to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in sustainable development and planning policies. Show your passion for creating greener communities and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the goals of Team NPT.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you submit your application through our website, follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice your presentation skills! As a Senior Policy Planner, you'll need to present evidence at Examinations in Public. Get comfortable speaking about your ideas and findings to make a strong impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Policy Planner in Neath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and the key responsibilities. Dive into the job description and highlight how your experience aligns with what they're looking for. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in shaping a greener future for Neath Port Talbot!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter! Tailor your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Senior Policy Planner role. Use the language from the job description to show you’re a perfect fit for Team NPT.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on your achievements rather than just listing duties. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex work programmes and deliver positive outcomes. We love seeing how you've made an impact in previous roles!
Follow the Application Process: Make sure to apply through our website as instructed. Double-check that you’ve included all necessary documents and that your application is submitted before the closing date. We can’t wait to hear from you, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on the National Planning Policy and Local Development Plan process. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but also understand how they apply in practice.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to manage complex work programmes and deliver positive outcomes. Think about times you've successfully engaged with the public or collaborated with partners, as these experiences are crucial for this role.
✨Research Neath Port Talbot
Get to know the area and its unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding the local context will help you articulate how you can contribute to creating a greener, more sustainable future for the community.
✨Prepare for Evidence Presentation
Since you'll be required to present evidence at Examinations in Public and Planning Appeals, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock presentations to get comfortable with the format and types of questions you might face.