At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate planning breaches and deliver excellent customer service across Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham.
- Company: Join Torbay Council, a dynamic team focused on thriving communities and quality of life.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, wellbeing support, and a Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available; apply early as adverts may close before the deadline.
- Why this job: Kickstart your planning career in a beautiful location with a supportive team culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in enforcement or planning, or a relevant qualification is essential.
The predicted salary is between 31900 - 36400 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 5 December 2025
Department: Pride in Place
Location: Torbay Council
Compensation: £39,152 - £41,771 per year
Description
We have an exciting opportunity within our Development Management Team for a Planning Enforcement Officer.
As an Officer working in our fast‑paced, innovative, and supportive team you will be working across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham investigating alleged breaches of planning control and taking action to remedy them. You will be delivering excellent customer service and helping to deliver on the Council’s corporate goals which include thriving people and places.
Planning enforcement work can provide a good introduction into a career in planning and in Torbay there is the opportunity to enjoy a good work‑life balance in a scenic and beautiful part of the UK.
We have an effective Planning Enforcement Policy and are using new technology to monitor, prioritise and action our enforcement cases.
The role can accommodate office based or hybrid working depending on your preference. We have a whole host of benefits such as a flexible working scheme, a commitment to your wellbeing and the Local Government Pension Scheme. Sometimes there might be the need for you to work after traditional office hours, but our flexi scheme means you’ll be entitled to take those hours back at a later date.
About you
We’re looking for a new team member who is motivated, enthusiastic, good communicators and can play close attention to detail.
You will either have experience of working in a role where enforcing rules or legislation was a central part of your job, or experience of working in planning and/or planning enforcement, or a qualification in town planning or a related discipline.
About us
There has never been a better time to join our team at Torbay Council. We have a real momentum building and have a shared sense of purpose and ambition. Torbay is a fantastic place to live, work and visit, offering unrivalled quality of life for individuals and families. We want to see a healthy, happy and prosperous Torbay. If you do too, join us. Come and be part of our #torbaystory.
If you are viewing this advert on a job board, you can access the full job description by placing the below URL into your browser:
For an informal chat please contact Jim Blackwell on or
Interviews are expected to be conducted during the week commencing 08th December 2025.
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Our adverts do sometimes close early - even where there\'s a published deadline - so if you\'re keen, please apply as soon as possible.
Skills
- To be able to effectively communicate using all available methods, including written and oral, formal and informal reports and in presentations taking into account issues of confidentiality.
- To communicate effectively with clarity, tact and purpose in all relevant situations with all relevant information conveyed in a manner it can be easily understood.
- Ability to demonstrate effective organisational skills, particularly with self‑organisation and the ability to see tasks through to a successful conclusion and deadlines are met.
- Ability to demonstrate the use of initiative and commitment to include demonstrating a flexible and adaptable approach to work requirements.
- Ability to demonstrate the use of developing, and the recording of, rational and persuasive arguments.
As this post meets the requirements of the Immigration Act 2016 (part 7), the ability to converse at ease with members of the public and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.
Knowledge
- Effective knowledge and understanding of all relevant planning legislation.
- Effective knowledge and understanding of report writing and presentations.
- Effective knowledge and understanding of how to undertake investigations, record facts and reach appropriate outcomes and recommendations.
- Effective knowledge and understanding of preparing court bundles and evidence.
Experience & Qualifications
- Experience of undertaking site inspections and to have experience in using appropriate interview techniques to ascertain relevant facts.
- Previous experience of resolving problems innovatively with a high degree of discretion, sensitivity and advocacy.
- Demonstrate experience of undertaking an investigation from receipt of an initial complaint through to a successful outcome.
- To be qualified to A Level or equivalent standard.
- Driving Licence and immediate access to a car to attend site visits as not all sites can be accessed by public transport.
Planning Enforcement Officer - 37 hours in Torquay employer: Torbay Council
At Torbay Council, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and innovative work environment for our Planning Enforcement Officers. Located in the picturesque Torbay area, we provide a healthy work-life balance, flexible working options, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, alongside opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic team dedicated to enhancing our community. Join us to contribute to meaningful projects while enjoying the scenic beauty and quality of life that Torbay has to offer.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Enforcement Officer - 37 hours in Torquay
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest planning legislation and enforcement policies in Torbay. This knowledge will not only help you understand the role better but also demonstrate your commitment and preparedness during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the planning and enforcement field. Attend local council meetings or planning workshops to meet people who can provide insights into the role and potentially refer you to opportunities within the council.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to planning enforcement scenarios. Think about how you would handle specific situations, as this will showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to apply your knowledge practically.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by engaging in community discussions or forums related to planning issues. This will not only enhance your understanding but also demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Enforcement Officer - 37 hours in Torquay
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Planning Enforcement Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous roles where you enforced rules or legislation, or your experience in planning and enforcement. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in communication, organisation, and problem-solving.
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your understanding of planning legislation and report writing in your application. Mention any relevant qualifications or training that support your knowledge in these areas, as this will strengthen your candidacy.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a compelling cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are passionate about the role and how you can contribute to the team at Torbay Council. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity and the values of the council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Torbay Council
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Make sure you brush up on relevant planning legislation before the interview. Being able to discuss specific laws and how they apply to planning enforcement will show your expertise and commitment to the role.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since effective communication is key in this role, prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex information in the past. Think about situations where you had to convey sensitive information clearly and tactfully.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Be ready to discuss how you manage your time and tasks effectively. Provide examples of how you've prioritised work and met deadlines, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios related to planning enforcement, including how you would approach investigations and resolve conflicts.
