Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape London's future by reviewing planning applications and engaging with communities.
- Company: Join a dynamic council dedicated to urban development and community needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible work options, and professional growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on housing and regeneration projects in vibrant London.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in planning, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication abilities required.
- Other info: Experience in London planning is a plus; multilingual candidates encouraged to apply.
Are you passionate about shaping the future of London’s built environment? Join our team as a Planning Officer and play a key role in ensuring that new housing developments and urban regeneration projects meet the needs of local communities and adhere to planning policies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Development Control: Review planning applications, ensuring they comply with local planning policies, zoning regulations, and national legislation. Provide recommendations on planning proposals.
- Planning Policy Implementation: Assist in the development and implementation of planning policies that align with the council’s long-term housing and urban development strategies.
- Consultation & Negotiation: Work with developers, architects, and consultants to assess and negotiate planning applications. Facilitate public consultations and engage with local communities regarding proposed developments.
- Site Assessments: Conduct site visits to assess the suitability of development proposals, ensuring that they align with local needs and environmental standards.
- Planning Reports & Documentation: Prepare detailed planning reports, summarising findings, analyses, and recommendations for senior management, planning committees, and stakeholders.
- Housing & Regeneration Projects: Contribute to the planning and delivery of housing and regeneration projects, including the provision of affordable housing and the revitalisation of local areas.
- Sustainability & Environmental Considerations: Ensure that development proposals meet sustainability standards, including energy efficiency, environmental impact assessments, and the integration of green spaces.
- Monitoring & Compliance: Monitor ongoing developments to ensure compliance with planning approvals and conditions. Investigate breaches of planning regulations and take appropriate enforcement actions when necessary.
- Policy Research & Data Analysis: Conduct research on housing and planning trends, market conditions, and community needs. Provide analysis to inform strategic planning decisions and support policy development.
Essential Qualifications & Skills:
- Experience: At least 2 years of experience in a planning officer or similar role, with a strong understanding of planning legislation and procedures.
- Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of UK planning law, local government planning procedures, and the principles of urban design and regeneration.
- Analytical Skills: Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to assess the impact of proposed developments on the local community and environment.
- Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare reports, present complex planning information, and engage with various stakeholders, including the public.
- Negotiation Skills: Experience in negotiating with developers, property owners, and other stakeholders to reach agreements that align with planning policies and community needs.
- Project Management: Ability to manage multiple planning applications and projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines are met and resources are used efficiently.
- IT Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office and planning software (e.g., GIS mapping tools, planning applications systems).
Desirable:
- Relevant Qualifications: A degree or professional qualification in Town Planning, Urban Design, or a related field (e.g., RICS, RTPI accredited).
- Experience in London: Experience working on planning issues specific to London, including high-density urban developments, regeneration projects, and the challenges of affordable housing provision.
- Multilingual: Ability to speak additional languages is a plus.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression within the council.
- A dynamic and supportive work environment.
- Flexible working arrangements and a healthy work-life balance.
- The chance to make a significant impact on the development of London’s housing and urban landscape.
Planning Officer employer: VNA Recruitment
Contact Detail:
VNA Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific planning policies and regulations in London. Understanding local nuances will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of urban planning. Attend local planning meetings or workshops to connect with current Planning Officers and gain insights into their experiences and challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss recent housing and regeneration projects in London during your interview. Being able to articulate your thoughts on these developments shows your engagement with current issues in the sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight any experience you have with community engagement or public consultations. This is a key aspect of the role, and demonstrating your skills in this area can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Planning Officer position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in planning or related fields. Be specific about your previous roles, particularly any that involved development control, policy implementation, or community engagement.
Showcase Analytical Skills: Demonstrate your analytical skills by providing examples of how you've assessed planning applications or conducted research on housing trends. Use quantifiable results where possible to illustrate your impact.
Tailor Your Communication: Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, ensure your application is well-written and free of errors. Tailor your language to reflect the professional standards expected in planning reports and stakeholder engagement.
How to prepare for a job interview at VNA Recruitment
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Make sure you brush up on UK planning law and local government procedures. Being able to discuss specific regulations and how they apply to the role will show your expertise and confidence.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific planning scenarios or challenges. Think about past experiences where you've successfully navigated similar situations and be ready to share those examples.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Planning Officer, you'll need to engage with various stakeholders. Be prepared to demonstrate your communication skills by discussing how you've effectively presented complex information in the past.
✨Highlight Your Project Management Experience
Discuss your ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Provide examples of how you've prioritised tasks and met deadlines in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
