Senior Planning Officer

We are currently working with a Local Authority in Devon who are seeking a Senior Planning Officer to join their Development Management team:

This role is responsible for managing a varied caseload of planning applications, pre‑applications and appeals, ensuring proposals are assessed in line with planning legislation, local policy and corporate objectives. Working within the Development Management team, you will provide professional planning advice, prepare reports and recommendations, engage with applicants, developers and stakeholders, and contribute to delivering a high‑quality planning service that supports sustainable development and positive outcomes for local communities.

Job: Senior Planning Officer

Client: Devon Based Local Authority

Rate: £45-50 per hour inside IR35

Working arrangement: Minimum 2dpw in office + site visits

Duration: 3 Months

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of planning applications, pre‑applications and appeals, assessing proposals against planning legislation, local policy and material considerations.
• Prepare professional reports, recommendations and appeal statements, presenting applications at Planning Committee and representing the Council where required.
• Negotiate with applicants, developers and consultees to secure positive planning outcomes while ensuring compliance with statutory processes and performance targets.
• Provide expert planning advice to customers, agents and stakeholders, undertaking site inspections, investigating planning matters and supporting enforcement activity.
• Maintain accurate planning records, stay up to date with planning legislation and policy, and contribute to the effective delivery of the Development Management service.

Requirements

• Experience managing planning applications within a local authority or similar planning environment, with knowledge of Development Management processes and planning legislation.
• Strong report writing, analytical and decision‑making skills, with the ability to balance planning policy, technical information and stakeholder feedback.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with experience liaising with applicants, developers, councillors and members of the public.
• Ability to manage a busy caseload, meet statutory deadlines and work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Relevant planning qualification (or equivalent experience), with RTPI membership/working towards RTPI advantageous for more senior levels.
• Ability to travel across the district to undertake site inspections; a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is preferred.